Japan's 'Ice Prince' Yuzuru Hanyu has sights set on historic third Olympic gold
The two-time defending champion will bring his full star power to the Winter Games and will be watched around the world by his adoring legion of fans.
Mentor Masami Ihara sees Takehiro Tomiyasu-anchored defense key at World Cup
Having seen Japan make huge strides since their tournament debut in 1998, the 54-year-old Ihara believes the current team has players with the best potential yet.
Virus surge in Japan overshadows excitement ahead of the Paralympics
Athletes and officials are caught between worries over COVID-19 and their belief in what the Paralympics can do for inclusiveness and disability sports.
At Tokyo Games, Japan puts crack in China's table tennis great wall
Despite his own retirement, Jun Mizutani believes the future of the Japanese men's game is bright and the country should look optimistically to Paris in 2024.
Japan skateboarders hope Olympics debut can soften social stigma
The success of homegrown athletes like gold medal winner Yuto Horigome and medal contender Aori Nishimura could help shift attitudes in Japan.
Has the world had enough of the Olympics?
The Olympics are an easy target for criticism, never more than now. Do they still matter? Or have they lost their way and strayed from whatever ideals they purport to embody?
Meet the cyclist aiming for Malaysia's first Olympic gold
Diminutive track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang is heading to the Tokyo Games with big dreams of becoming the first Malaysian to win an Olympic gold medal.
Women say it's time to focus on structural issues that perpetuate sexism in sports
Female athletes call for reforms of outdated structures that hurt women’s career prospects and present a challenge for young athletes unwilling to follow the footsteps of their seniors.
