Despite their Olympic campaign coming to an end with a 5-1 loss against reigning Olympic champions the Netherlands on Saturday (3 August), Japan defender Shihori Oikawa has offered a heart-felt thank you to the thousands of fans who have witnessed her team in action at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium.
“I really want to say thank you for the atmosphere, and thank you for the amazing memories”, said the 35-year-old, who also competed for Japan at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, which were delayed by one year due to the Covid-19 global health pandemic, shortly after Japan’s defeat against the Oranje. “It has been special to be here in Paris, playing in front of many fans. It means so much to us, after no fans in Tokyo.”
Sakura Japan completed Pool A phase with three points from five matches, claiming one win and four losses despite some strong performances here in Paris. While things clearly did not go their way, Oikawa remains incredibly proud to have represented her country at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
“Today was tough, playing the best team in the world”, continued Oikawa, discussing the defeat against the Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League title holders. “But I’m really proud because we’ve gave it everything against them. We played as a team to the end, we were fighting as a team.
“I am so proud of our team and also those who support us. For me, it is my family and friends. They always encouraged me, supported me and pushed me. It is because of them that I could play here.”
Commenting on what was her personal highlight here at Paris 2024, Oikawa was in no doubt. “Playing France was very special. There was a big crowd and we managed to win. We made a little bit of history as it was our first win (in the Olympic Games) since (Beijing) 2008. That will be a special memory for all of us.”
The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey.
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