Japan is considering awarding the People's Honor Award to retired speed skater Miho Takagi, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Friday.
The move recognizes one of the most decorated athletes in Japanese history. The award is the highest honor the Japanese government can bestow upon an individual for contributions to the nation.
During a press conference in Tokyo on May 22, Kihara said the prime minister directed the government to consider the honor for Takagi [2]. He said that Takagi, 32 [2], retired from professional competition earlier this spring [3].
Takagi is the most successful Japanese athlete in Winter Olympics history, having earned a total of 10 medals [1, 3]. Kihara said the achievement represents a significant contribution to the promotion and development of sports in Japan.
"Her achievements extend beyond her own sport and have greatly contributed to the promotion and development of sports in our country," Kihara said [1]. He said that her career provided the public with dreams and emotion, while bringing bright hope and courage to society [1].
The announcement coincided with Takagi's birthday on May 22 [4]. The government's deliberation process for the award typically involves reviewing the athlete's impact on the national psyche, and their enduring legacy in their respective field.
“Japan is considering awarding the People's Honor Award to retired speed skater Miho Takagi”
The People's Honor Award is rarely granted and is typically reserved for individuals who achieve unprecedented success that inspires the entire nation. By considering Takagi for this honor following her retirement, the Japanese government is formally cementing her status as a national icon, acknowledging that her 10 Olympic medals set a benchmark for future generations of Japanese winter athletes.
