Golden Memories and a Lifetime of Throws: Judo Star Mirai Takaichi Hangs Up Her Gi After Three Olympic Games
- Mirai Takaichi, a renowned judoka, has announced her retirement from the sport.
- Takaichi, born in Tokyo, began her judo journey at the age of 8.
- In November 2022, Takaichi married Kengo Takaichi, a former training player and current coach of the Japan Women's National Team.
Mirai Takaichi Announces Retirement from Judo
Photo By Sponichi
Mirai Takaichi, a renowned judoka, has announced her retirement from the sport. Komatsu, her judo company, made the announcement on October 30th. Takaichi, a three-time Olympic competitor, will transition into coaching and support the development of judo worldwide.
Takaichi, born in Tokyo, began her judo journey at the age of 8. She joined Komatsu in 2013 after attending Aihara Junior High School in Kanagawa and Shukutoku High School in Tokyo. Her impressive career includes a bronze medal at the 2014 World Championships and leading Japan in her weight class. Although she didn’t win an individual Olympic medal, she contributed to the mixed team silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Takaichi won a total of four medals at the World Championships, including two silver and two bronze.
In November 2022, Takaichi married Kengo Takaichi, a former training player and current coach of the Japan Women’s National Team. She changed her registered name from Tashiro and continued to compete internationally. Her specialty is Uchimata, and she had a notable rivalry with Clarisse Agbennuen, the 2021 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist.
A Message from Mirai Takaichi
I have decided to retire as an active player. I started judo at the Takao Police Station when I was 8 years old and was taught the wonders and fun of judo at Sobukan Yoshida Dojo, Aihara Junior High School, and Shukutoku High School. After joining Komatsu, I experienced the challenges and wonders of competing on the world stage. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has provided guidance, support, and encouragement throughout my career.
I was taught that “Judo cannot be done alone,” and I will always remember to be grateful for judo and those around me. Thanks to everyone involved, I had a wonderful experience and a fulfilling active career. I am grateful for the love of judo that has made my life so colorful.
In the future, I will become an instructor and make use of my experiences to contribute to the judo world and beyond. I will continue to learn and work hard to make a positive impact.