Former Nadeshiko Japan veteran Nahomi Kawasumi has confirmed she will not take part in the Tokyo Olympics torch relay this month after deciding to withdraw from the event last year due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kawasumi, who plays for Sky Blue FC in the U.S.-based National Women's Soccer League, had said just before the games were postponed last year that she was withdrawing from the relay due to fears she could contract the virus or infect others if she traveled back from the United States.

Other members of Japan's 2011 Women's World Cup-winning squad will use the Olympic flame to light the torch to officially kick off the relay.