Teller Report

17-year-old from sick bed to the SM semi-finals

2/1/2020, 9:19:08 PM

17-year-old Gustav Björkler has reached the semi-finals in Umeå, a feat in itself for such a young player. The fact that he was also treated for a serious illness makes the performance even more remarkable. - What I have been through has made me mentally stronger, says Björkler.


The road to success in Umeå, he also reached the semi-finals in the mixed, has been long with deep valleys in the past year. One year ago, Björkler underwent a tough chemotherapy treatment and a stem cell transplant for the unusual blood disease MDS (Myelo Dyplastic Syndrome). For six weeks, Björkler was held in isolation at the Eastern Hospital in Gothenburg.

During the rehab and time at the hospital, Björkler, who before the illness was included in SOK's Talent 2022, continued to exercise and was declared healthy in August.

Back on the race track for the club Västra Frölunda he is more humble for life and to take advantage of it.

- I now know how important it is to be happy and grateful for what you have and not take everything for granted. I am extremely grateful for life, ”says Björkler to the Badminton Association.

He plays seminar in mixed with his girlfriend, national team player Johanna Magnusson.