Martin Damsbo: “Still proud to step onto that stage” – on making another World Cup Final

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT is presented by WIAWIS.

The veteran compound archer Martin Damsbo has opened up to World Archery about qualifying the Saltillo 2026 Hyundai Archery World Cup Final, his sixth final overall and a full decade after his last appearance at the season finale, at Odense 2016.

“Qualifying for the World Archery World Cup Final on its 20-year anniversary is something truly special to me. I’ve been part of the World Cup circuit since the very beginning, and over the years I’ve become the archer with the most World Cup stage appearances,” said the Dane, now 41.

Damsbo qualified for the Final in Mexico through consistent performances across the four stages, with fourth place in Shanghai and sixth in Antalya providing the points he needed.

“To stand here again, 20 years later, and earn my spot in the Final for the sixth time... it’s hard to describe how proud that makes me.”

Damsbo made his international debut in 2002 and, alongside his own career, has played a key role in the development of some of Denmark’s best-known archers, including Stephan Hansen, Tanja Gellenthien and Mathias Fullerton, with whom he won compound men’s team gold in Madrid.

“I have shot with Mattie [Fullerton] since he was just a small kid, coaching him in his junior years and seeing him grow into an amazing shooter and person on and off the field,” said Martin.

“The last few Finals I had the pleasure of standing behind him as a coach. But this time, to be back side by side is a whole new level. To travel with your teammate to the big ‘dance’ – it’s not often you get to do that!”

“The level of archery today is unbelievably high. The talent on the shooting line, especially the young shooters coming up, is incredible. Watching them push the sport forward motivates me every single day to stay sharp, stay committed and keep fighting to be competitive at the highest level.”

Damsbo also paid tribute to the close-knit Danish archery community and the wider World Archery family.

“None of this would be possible without the people around me. My sponsors, who have supported me year after year. My family, who have stood behind me through the years. The Danish federation, and especially our head coach Niels Dall, whose dedication and hard work keep us moving forward.”

“And of course, the entire World Archery family – the athletes, staff, volunteers and fans – who make this sport feel like home and keep me wanting to come back and give my best.”

Damsbo admitted he felt nervous before finally seeing the ‘Qualified’ badge appear on the World Archery website.

“It reminded me of how far the sport has come, how far I’ve come, and how grateful I am to still be part of this amazing journey.”

“Twenty years later, I’m still here, still motivated, and still proud to step onto that stage.”

With thanks to Guille Garcia.