Megumi Kurihara Endorses Strongest Generation Aiming for Dual Volleyball Medals at Paris Olympics

“The Paris Olympics, which began on July 27, follows the Tokyo Olympics’ record-breaking 58 medals. This year’s Games are also expected to feature numerous medal-worthy events. We’ve conducted in-depth interviews with legends to highlight the key points of these exciting competitions. Let’s revel in the anticipated medal rush of the Japanese athletes.”

“Yuki Ishikawa (28, right) and Ran Takahashi (22)

Men’s Semifinal: August 7 at 23:00 (Fuji TV network) 
          Final: August 10 at 20:00 (TBS network)

On July 21, Japanese men’s volleyball team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the world’s top-ranked Poland in a pre-Olympic match, providing a significant boost ahead of the Paris Olympics. With hopes for gold medals at their highest since the Munich Olympics in 1972, the team is centered around Yuki Ishikawa and Ran Takahashi. Former Japanese women’s volleyball representative, Megumi Kurihara, praises the double aces:

“Ishikawa is top-notch in every aspect. When the team is in a pinch, the coach directs, Focus the ball on Ishikawa, highlighting the immense trust he has earned. He’s like the ‘Shohei Ohtani’ of Japanese volleyball, recognized for his skills globally. We hope to see him deliver performances that stir emotions in Paris.

Takahashi excels in defense. While top global teams often have strong servers, Takahashi’s presence ensures stable ball handling for the setter despite powerful serves from opponents. He plays a crucial role in creating diverse attack options and significantly contributes to the team.”

Here’s an analysis of the recent progress in men’s volleyball:

“A significant factor is the increase in players challenging themselves overseas. Experiencing the top levels of global competition and bringing back those insights to Japanese teams has created a positive cycle. Seeing these players’ successes inspires others to aim for the world stage. This trend is fostering very favorable momentum.”

Sarina Koga (28) and Mayu Ishikawa (24)

Women’s Semifinal: August 8 at 23:00 (NHK General)         
                Final: August 11 at 20:00 (TV Asahi network)

In the pre-Olympic international tournament, the “Nations League 2024,” where the Japanese women’s team secured the runner-up spot, Yuki Ishikawa and Sarina Koga, both double aces, are leading the team. Kurihara continues:

“Mayu Ishikawa has shown rapid growth since playing in the Italian Serie A league last year. Her experience at the highest level has refined her spike, making her even more effective. In Italy, where blockers are of a high standard, she has had to adapt by targeting opponents’ fingertips and incorporating feints. For the Japanese team, which lacks height, a spiker like her is invaluable.

Sarina Koga is in what could be considered her best form. She offers not only stable defense but also a high volume of attacks. We expect her to deliver plays that disrupt opponents. Koga has announced her retirement after this Olympics, so she is likely to showcase her best performance as a culmination of her career.” 

Both the men’s and women’s teams are “medal-contending teams,” and Kurihara gives them a strong endorsement, saying they can be considered the “strongest teams in history.”

“They will not only deliver results but also showcase the exciting aspects of volleyball. Even those who have never watched volleyball before will be thrilled and entertained, so I hope people will pay attention.”

The prospect of winning medals in both categories at the Paris Olympics has become increasingly realistic.

From the August 9, 2024 issue of FRIDAY