Carolina Marín has announced her retirement from professional badminton, confirming she will not be competing at the 2026 European Championships in Huelva.

The Spaniard shared the news today through a video on her social media channels, bringing an end to one of the most legendary careers in our sport. Marín was expected to make her return at the upcoming European Championships taking place 6 to 12 April after receiving a wildcard entry but after her surgery earlier this year, she has decided not to take the risk of returning to competition.

“Today I want to share a message with you, and I want to be direct. My journey in professional badminton has come to an end and therefore I will not be competing in the European Championships in Huelva.”

She admitted she would have liked to step on court one final time, but remains firm in her decision. “I would have liked for us to see each other one last time on court, but I don’t want to put my body at risk for that. I’ve said it many times, and I stand by my decision.”

Marín also reflected on how her career has ended. “I wish my career had ended in a different way, but in life things don’t always go as we want and we have to accept that. Deep down, I did retire on court, in Paris in 2024. We just didn’t know it at the time.”

Despite not competing, her hometown Huelva will still be part of her farewell. The city where it all began will now also mark the end. “I wanted the journey to end in Huelva, and in a way, it will. Not with a racket in my hand, but in the city where I was born, closing a circle that has lasted so many years.”

“I will be there to give back all the energy you’ve given me throughout this time and to experience an unforgettable week. That little girl who discovered badminton and wanted to win everything is now happy and is coming back home.”

In the video, Marín also wanted to thank all those who have supported her along the way, from her family to the wider team around her. “This journey would not have been possible without every single person who has been part of my team and my family. Thank you for never letting me fall, for standing by my side and supporting me in the toughest moments. Thank you as well to my sponsors, for not abandoning me, and for understanding that behind the image, there is a person.”

At 32 years old, Marín leaves behind a legacy that has defined an era of badminton. An Olympic champion, three-time world champion, and European Games gold medallist, she has also won seven European Championships titles and many World Tour titles, becoming one of the most successful players in badminton history.

But her influence and impact goes beyond the titles. Marín has not only achieved historic success for Spain but has also helped increase badminton’s presence in her home country and across Europe while inspiring a whole new generation of players.

“I leave my passion feeling very proud of everything I’ve achieved. Not just for the titles, but for earning the respect of the sports world both on and off court, and helping badminton become recognised, watched, and played in my country. I couldn’t ask for more. Now a new chapter begins, where I will try to give back all the support I’ve received and continue to stand for the values of sport above all else.”

“Thank you for sharing this incredible journey with me.”