Japanese women’s doubles bronze medalists Chiharu Shida and Nami Matsuyama have announced they will go their separate ways following the upcoming world championships in Paris.
Shida, 28, revealed plans to team up with mixed doubles bronze medalist Arisa Igarashi, while 27-year-old Matsuyama is exploring a move into mixed doubles.
The pair, who medaled at the Paris Olympics last summer, explained their decision during a press conference in Kumamoto. Matsuyama felt she had reached her peak and didn’t want to hold Shida back from chasing greater heights.
“I gave everything for the Olympics,” said Matsuyama. “I couldn’t see myself improving further and didn’t want to block my partner’s ambitions.”
Their final appearances together will be at the Japan Open (July 15–20) and the world championships in Paris (Aug 25–31).
“We’ve spent more time together than with family,” said Shida. “Ending our journey in Paris makes it even more meaningful. I want us to finish as world champions.”
