Tatsu Saito Undergoes Neck Surgery, Aims for Comeback at Kodokan Cup

JES Group coach Tomokazu Inoue, who visited the venue, spoke to the press about Tatsu Saito, a member of the men’s 100km+ division at the Paris Olympics. Saito underwent neck surgery on October 30th at a hospital in the Kanto region due to a hernia in his cervical vertebrae.

Coach Inoue explained that Saito had felt some discomfort in his right hand this spring before the Olympics. An examination revealed a large hernia in the 6th and 7th cervical vertebrae. After undergoing tests at various hospitals, it was decided that surgery was the best option.

Although Saito’s daily life will not be affected without surgery, Coach Inoue stated that the doctor advised surgery if Saito wanted to aim for the Olympics as a top athlete. Saito made the decision himself, and the surgery on October 30th took about seven hours.

Saito will be hospitalized for about two to three weeks and will rehabilitate without rushing. He aims to return to full-scale training in about six months and make a comeback at the Kodokan Cup, which is expected to be held around the same time next year. If he recovers quickly, he may also compete in the All Japan Business Individual Championship in September.

Keiji Suzuki, coach of the Japan men’s national team, responded to an interview after the tournament and explained Saito’s current situation. Suzuki met with Saito the day before and reported that Saito is able to go to the bathroom and walk. However, Suzuki acknowledged that it is unlikely Saito will be able to compete in the world championships next June, stating that Saito’s priority should be his survival and recovery.