Osaka Gov. Fusae Ota was banned for a fourth straight year Wednesday from entering the raised ring because she is a woman in what has now become an annual ritual of the Japan Sumo Association (JSA).
Ota, who was hoping to present a trophy to the winner at this year's Spring Grand Sumo Tournament in Osaka in March, was again denied admission to the dohyo, which traditionally only men have been allowed to enter since the beginning of the ancient sport.
"It won't be at this coming tournament," said JSA executive Magaki, who is in charge of operations for the March 14-28 meet at Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium.