Japanese high school baseball once featured grueling training methods called "hell drills." Explore why players pursue Koshien with such passion and how modern practices now prioritize athlete welfare and safety.
21-year-old Ukrainian refugee Aonishiki (Danylo Yabgushyshin) achieved back-to-back sumo championships—a feat not seen since legendary Futabayama in 1937. After fleeing the war and arriving alone in Japan, this young wrestler's historic rise is inspiring fans worldwide. Explore his journey and the role of foreign wrestlers in Japan's traditional sport.
After leaving the Japan Sumo Association, former yokozuna Hakuho unveiled his "World Sumo Grand Slam" vision, hinting at future cooperation with the JSA. Chairman Hakkaku's response reveals deep tensions. Explore how sumo's greatest champion challenges tradition from the outside.
Ski jumping legend Noriaki Kasai (53) misses the 2026 Milan Olympics but declares his intention to compete at the 2030 French Alps Olympics at age 57. With records including eight consecutive Olympic appearances and a silver medal at Sochi, Kasai's declaration that "It's not over yet" has drawn widespread admiration from fans worldwide.
Hideki Matsuyama showcased his resilience at the 2025 Sony Open in Hawaii, making two stunning eagles on the final day to finish T16. While the Japanese star couldn't secure back-to-back wins following his record-breaking 35-under victory at The Sentry, his performance on the par-5s demonstrated why he remains one of golf's elite players.
Two-time Olympic champion Yuzuru Hanyu returns to the ice with his solo show "REALIVE" in April 2026. Explore the significance of his comeback, his legacy in Japanese figure skating, and fan reactions from around the world.
Kei Nishikori (35) returned to the Australian Open main draw for the first time in four years, entering on a protected ranking. He beat qualifier Thiago Monteiro from two sets down in a four-hour epic to reach the second round for the first time since 2019. A look at a legend's comeback from repeated injuries.
Discover why rugby players are highly sought after in Japan's corporate world. From the "One for All, All for One" spirit to Japan's unique "taiikukaikei" sports culture, we explore what makes rugby athletes ideal candidates for Japanese companies and how this reflects broader Japanese workplace values.
Former Yakult Swallows slugger Munetaka Murakami agrees to surprising 2-year, $34M contract with struggling White Sox. Despite lower-than-expected value, the 25-year-old Triple Crown winner aims to prove himself and secure a mega-deal in 2027 free agency. Analysis of this strategic move to a rebuilding team.