Japanese wrestling star Risako Kinjo announced her retirement on October 13, 2025, at age 30, after a career filled with major victories and personal milestones. The double Olympic gold medalist shared that she felt fulfilled by her achievements, including golds in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2021, and expressed gratitude for the joy wrestling brought her.
Career Highlights and Olympic Success
Risako Kinjo first rose to fame at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she won gold in the 63kg freestyle category by defeating Belarusian wrestler Maryia Mamashuk. This victory marked the start of her dominance in women’s wrestling.
Five years later, at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Kinjo claimed another gold in the 57kg class, making her one of Japan’s most celebrated athletes. Her wins helped Japan secure multiple medals in wrestling that year.
Kinjo also earned four world championship titles, with her latest in 2024. This came after she took time off to give birth to her first child in 2022, showing her resilience and dedication.
Her sister, Yukako Kinjo, added to the family legacy by winning gold in the 62kg event at the Tokyo Olympics. Together, they inspired a new generation of wrestlers in Japan.
Personal Journey and Challenges
Kinjo faced several hurdles during her career, including weight class changes and the demands of balancing family life with elite competition. After her 2016 win, she moved to the 57kg category to chase further success.
In 2022, she welcomed her first child, which paused her training but did not end her drive. She returned stronger, capturing the 2024 world title and proving that athletes can thrive after motherhood.
Kinjo often spoke about the mental toughness required in wrestling. She credited her coaches and family for support through tough matches and injuries.
Her retirement comes as women’s wrestling gains more global attention, with increased participation and media coverage.
Impact on Japanese Wrestling
Kinjo’s success boosted Japan’s wrestling program, which has produced stars like Saori Yoshida, a three-time Olympic champion who retired in 2019. Kinjo followed in those footsteps, helping Japan maintain its stronghold in the sport.
Recent events show Japan’s continued strength. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Japanese wrestlers like Rei Higuchi won gold, building on Kinjo’s legacy.
Her story resonates with young athletes, especially women, who see her as a role model for overcoming obstacles.
Here are some key statistics from Kinjo’s career:
- Olympic Golds: 2 (2016, 2021)
- World Championships: 4
- Major Comeback: World title in 2024 post-childbirth
| Year | Achievement | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Gold Medal | Rio Olympics (63kg) |
| 2021 | Gold Medal | Tokyo Olympics (57kg) |
| 2022 | Birth of First Child | Personal Milestone |
| 2024 | World Championship | Final Title Win |
Reasons for Retirement and Future Plans
Kinjo stated that she had experienced all the joys of being an athlete and felt fulfilled. At 30, she chose to step away while still at the top of her game.
Experts believe her decision allows time for family and new pursuits, such as coaching or promoting women’s sports in Japan.
Wrestling fans reacted with mixed emotions, praising her contributions but sad to see her leave competition.
Her announcement aligns with a trend of athletes retiring young to focus on life beyond sports, similar to other Olympians who prioritize health and family.
Global Reaction and Legacy
News of Kinjo’s retirement spread quickly, with tributes from fellow wrestlers and fans worldwide. International media highlighted her as a pioneer in women’s freestyle wrestling.
In Japan, her impact is evident in rising youth participation rates in wrestling programs.
Kinjo’s legacy includes not just medals but also advancing gender equality in sports. She often advocated for better support for female athletes.
As wrestling evolves, her techniques and strategies will influence training methods for years to come.
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