Sandefjord, a seaside town in southeastern Norway, will be the setting of a heartwarming farewell as Hans-Kristian Vittinghus bows out from international badminton at the FZ FORZA Norwegian International 2023.

Vittinghus first hinted at his retirement plans back in May 2022, stating on X, “I came to the conclusion that 2023 will be my last on the WT. Exactly when I’ll quit is still to be decided as I’m working with different scenarios.”

It was only two months ago, in September, when the Dane made it official and set a date for his farewell performance — the FZ FORZA Norwegian International, happening from 9th to 12th November in Sandefjord, Norway.

For Vittinghus, playing his last international match in this charming city is a fitting way to bid adieu. “The tournament is being played in the city right next to where my wife is from, so I’m bringing her and my son and will visit my in-laws,” the Dane shared.

Although his international journey may be nearing its end, the past months have been anything but a slow wind-down. Vittinghus has been keeping busy, having played a total of seven tournaments this year, with his last international appearance in July at the YONEX Canada Open 2023. But his involvement in badminton extends far beyond the World Tour. “I haven’t played any international tournaments since Canada Open, but I’ve played 11 league matches, done lots of clinics and exhibitions all over Denmark and in Vancouver, and been busy with coaching as well — while also having to do my own training. So, it’s safe to say I haven’t been bored,” he said.

As he prepares to tread the courts in Norway one last time, Vittinghus is focused not just on the outcome but on the experience itself. “Now that it gets closer, it fills a bit more in my conscience, but as I had the French league on Saturday last week and the Danish league both Tuesday and Thursday this week, my focus and priority are with those matches, as the result in Norway is not really a big concern for me,” he stated.

Certainly, the Norwegian International holds a special place in his heart and career. In 2006, it was the very tournament where he claimed his first international title by defeating former world number one, Muhammad Roslin Hashim. He also went on to win the title in 2009 and 2010. "But the main thing for me is just to have fun and enjoy being able to finish my career on court with my family around me," Vittinghus reflected.

His career boasts numerous triumphs, including two European Championships bronze medals, a string of tour and circuit titles and medals, and great moments that badminton enthusiasts will always remember. Vittinghus asserted, "I don’t doubt for one second it’s been the right decision to retire internationally this year. I've enjoyed my time since Canada Open a lot, so in that regard, I’m not really feeling too sad or emotional about it being my last event."

"On the contrary, I actually look forward to getting it done, so I can continue looking forward to the next chapters of my life, which is basically still completely full of badminton, just in a different way," added the Danish athlete.

So, while he bids adieu to international competition, we won't be seeing the last of Hans-Kristian Vittinghus in the badminton world.

As Vittinghus takes the spot as the top seed in the men’s singles, Norway will proudly present its talents competing on home soil: Markus Barth, Torjus Flaatten/ Vegard Rikheim, and Marie Christensen/ Aimee Hong.

You can follow all the matches live from the FZ FORZA Norwegian International 2023 on badmintoneurope.tv.