The world of badminton has lost one of its’ greatest players of all time. Erland Kops died at 80 years.
The fivefold Danish champion and sevenfold All England-winner in men’s singles passed away early Saturday.
Erland Kops was a beacon in Danish badminton in the 50’s and 60’s where he took a bunch of titles, in both men’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
In November, last year, he received the “BWF Lifetime Achievement Award” for his extraordinary career and effort for the sport over many years.
In 1992, he was inducted into the Danish Hall of Fame, alongside nine great sports personalities.
Five years later followed the induction into the "World Badminton Hall of Fame", and, in 2000, he received the Order of the Dannebrog, a knight’s cross presented by the Queen of Denmark.
In 2012, Badminton Europe had the honor of inducting him, as the first member, into the "BEC Hall of Fame".
On January 14, 2017, Erland Kops celebreated his 80th brithday.
Our thoughts go out to the friends and family of Erland.
A minute’s silence will be held before the Danish team faces Germany in the 2017 European Mixed Team Championships semifinal, this evening.