Olympic Champion Wrestler Fujinami Spurred on By Father; Conflicts, Injuries Overcome Along the Way
TSU — The Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 have officially begun, with Paris Olympic champion wrestler Akari Fujinami serving as a flag-bearer for Japan at the opening ceremony in Nagoya.
The Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 kicked off in Nagoya with Japan's Olympic wrestling champion Akari Fujinami serving as the flag-bearer. She led the Japanese team into Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium alongside BMX rider Rimu Nakamura, expressing excitement about the games. Fujinami, 22, has maintained an impressive 153-match winning streak in official competitions.
However, her journey has not been without obstacles, particularly conflicts and injuries involving her father, coach Toshikazu. Born in Yokkaichi, Fujinami took up wrestling at age four, inspired by her father's achievements and her older brother's guidance. Toshikazu, now 61, employed a motivational coaching style, encouraging steady practice rather than forcing her.
Their relationship grew stronger during her Olympic triumph in Paris. Despite a challenging past, including a foot injury that forced her out of the 2022 World Championships and subsequent dislocations and knee injuries, Fujinami credits Toshikazu for becoming less negative in his critiques. She acknowledges the positive impact of their bond, even if they may have grown closer under different circumstances.
Written by urgent.news from The Japan News by The Yomiuri Shimbun's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
