The government is looking to present the prestigious People's Honor Award to figure skating superstar Yuzuru Hanyu, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said Friday.
Last month, Hanyu claimed the gold medal in men's singles at the Pyeongchang Olympics, becoming the first man since American Dick Button in 1952 to repeat as champion in the event.
Hanyu's feat is a "historic achievement" that both moved and encouraged Japanese people, bringing "enormous dreams and hopes to society," the top government spokesman said.