Emperor and Empress Watch Asian Games Basketball

Sep 21, 2026 | News On Japan

NAGOYA - Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako watched Japan defeat Kazakhstan in a women’s basketball preliminary-round game at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya.

The Emperor and Empress arrived at the competition venue in Nagoya at around 2:30 p.m. and exchanged handshakes with event officials.

They attended the preliminary-round women’s basketball game between Japan and Kazakhstan.

With cheers from spectators and the sound of players’ shoes echoing through the venue, the imperial couple watched the game while listening to explanations from tournament officials.

Japan went on to win the match, and the Emperor and Empress applauded the players from both teams after the final whistle.

Following the game, Empress Masako told an official accompanying them, "That was a convincing victory," adding, "It is wonderful to see both men’s and women’s basketball becoming so popular."

Source: TBS

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