The End of an Era: Mohammad Ahsan Bids Farewell to Badminton
The badminton world mourns the retirement of a legend as Mohammad Ahsan, alongside his longtime partner Hendra Setiawan, took to the court for one final time at the Indonesia Masters 2025. The iconic Istora GBK, their home turf, witnessed the bittersweet end to a career marked by dominance and unwavering dedication.
"The decision to retire wasn’t easy. My body has spoken to me clearly," Ahsan explained, acknowledging the inevitable physical toll of a demanding sport. "We’re both content with what we’ve achieved in badminton, and it feels like the right time to step away."
Ahsan’s final match was originally intended to be a planned farewell. However, an unexpected victory in the round of 32 saw the veteran player overcome with emotion, delaying his goodbye. âI had prepared my farewell speech, but fate had other plans. Winning that first match felt as exhilarating as winning a final," Ahsan shared, capturing the complex mix of joy and nostalgia that filled that moment.
Ahsan’s career is a testament to his commitment to excellence. A three-time World Champion, with victories in Guangzhou (2013), Jakarta (2015), and Basel (2019), he became a household name alongside Setiawan. Their partnership culminated in a triumphant Thomas Cup victory in Aarhus (2020), etching their names further into badminton history.
While Olympic glory remained elusive, their run to the semifinals in Tokyo (2020) solidified their place among the sport’s greats. Beyond medals, Ahsan’s sportsmanship, dedication, and genuine passion have left an indelible mark on the badminton world. He consistently embodied the spirit of the sport, inspiring countless young players with his unwavering commitment and graciousness.
As Ahsan steps away from competitive play, his impact extends far beyond the court. A recent interview with Archyde delved into his legacy, his inspirations, and his future endeavors.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter
Ahsan expressed his hope that his legacy will be one of dedication and respect for the game. His journey has been fueled by a deep love for badminton, nurtured by the unwavering support of his family, whom he credits for being "the wind beneath my wings throughout my career."
Now that he has retired from professional badminton, Ahsan is eager to explore new challenges and embrace quality time with his loved ones.
"I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and discovering new passions," he shared with Archyde.
Sharing valuable insights with aspiring badminton players, Ahsan encourages them to "always respect the game and never lose sight of your love for it. Badminton has given me so much, and I hope aspiring players can find their own joy and success on the court."
His words resonate with both professionalism and a genuine passion for the sport that has shaped his life. As Mohammad Ahsan takes his bow, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, sportsmanship, and unwavering love for badminton. He will be deeply missed on the court, but his impact will continue to inspire generations to come.