In the world of sports, victory is often celebrated, but the true measure of greatness lies not just in winning but in the character shown both on and off the field. Japanese athletes, fans, and staff have consistently demonstrated that sportsmanship goes beyond the game, earning global respect through their actions. Two stories from recent international events — the 2018 Russia World Cup and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics — highlight how the spirit of Japanese sportsmanship extends far beyond mere athletic performance.
World Cup 2018: Japan’s humble exit
There was a time when the Japanese national soccer team wasn’t considered a formidable force on the world stage. However, Japan’s commitment to improving its soccer game, learning from the best, and persevering through numerous challenges has earned it a respected place in international soccer. This progress was on full display during the 2018 Russia World Cup.
In a dramatic match against the formidable Belgian team during the Round of 16, Japan seized the lead by scoring two goals. Yet, despite their best efforts, Belgium managed to catch up and ultimately defeated Japan with a last-minute goal during extra time. Japan’s journey in the World Cup ended, but their performance earned admiration — even from their opponents. True strength, as Japan demonstrated, garners respect regardless of the outcome.
But it wasn’t just the match that won Japan worldwide respect; it was the actions of the Japanese team and their fans after the game that truly left a lasting impression. Following their elimination, the Japanese team prepared to return home. However, before leaving, the players meticulously cleaned their locker room and left a note in Russian that simply said: “Thank you.” Meanwhile, in the stadium stands, Japanese fans took all their trash with them as they left, leaving the area spotless.
Through their conduct, the Japanese team and their fans earned the respect of the entire world. Their performance, manners, and everything they demonstrated commanded admiration and moved people. Even in defeat, they conveyed their character to the world. Of course, the conduct of the Japanese team and fans at this World Cup doesn’t need to be overly praised, for it is simply a reflection of their natural behavior, without any pretense.
A nation with such high standards, discipline, and a spirit of unity is hard to truly defeat. Even in temporary setbacks, they quickly rise again, striving for higher goals, greater strength, and more outstanding achievements. This spirit of perseverance and respect is something other countries could learn from.
Tokyo 2020 Olympics: The ‘Tokyo Angel’
The spirit of Japanese sportsmanship was again displayed during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, this time in a heartwarming story involving an athlete and an Olympic staff member. Hansle Parchment, a 31-year-old Jamaican athlete competing in the men’s 110-meter hurdles, was en route to the National Stadium in Shinjuku for his semifinal race. However, while listening to music on the shuttle bus, Parchment failed to notice that he had boarded the wrong bus and ended up at a venue in Koto Ward — a seaside area hosting swimming competitions — far from the athletics stadium.
With the race about to start, returning to the athlete’s village to catch the correct shuttle bus would have made him late, risking his chance to compete. Realizing the urgency of the situation, a female Olympic staff member named Tijana Kawashima stepped in to help. Without hesitation, Kawashima paid out of her own pocket for Parchment to take a taxi to the correct venue. Thanks to her quick thinking and generosity, Parchment arrived on time, was able to warm up, and went on to win the gold medal.
Parchment later shared this heartwarming story, which quickly became a beloved tale. Kawashima was dubbed the “Tokyo Angel” and was awarded a certificate of appreciation by the Jamaican Embassy, inviting her and her family to visit Jamaica in the future.
After winning the gold, Parchment returned to the Koto venue on the same bus he had initially taken by mistake. He found Kawashima, returned the 10,000 yen [about US$70] she had given him, and thanked her in person. “It’s all thanks to you that I was able to make it to the final that day,” Parchment said. To express his gratitude, he also gifted Kawashima a Jamaican team jersey.
On August 7, Parchment posted a video on Instagram with Kawashima, sharing the touching story. The post received widespread attention, with many commenting that, beyond the athletes’ relentless efforts, it is these heartwarming stories that truly move us during the Olympics.
The true spirit of sportsmanship
These two stories — from the World Cup and the Tokyo Olympics — demonstrate that Japanese sportsmanship is about much more than winning. It’s about embodying values that inspire others, showing respect, kindness, and a dedication to excellence both on and off the field. The world could learn much from Japan’s example, as true strength is demonstrated not just in victories, but in character.
Translated by Katy Liu
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