The Japan Paralympic Committee (JPC) announced on August 23 that Chika Shigesada (41), a member of Japan’s archery team for the Paris Paralympics, has withdrawn from the competition.
Three years ago, Shigesada posted a comment on another athlete’s blog, saying, “You should stop struggling in vain.” She was sued for defamation as a result. Earlier this month, the Tokyo District Court ordered her to pay approximately 1.24 million yen in damages.
Initially, the Japan Disabled Archery Federation maintained that Shigesada’s nomination as a Paralympic representative was valid. However, the JPC judged that her actions might violate the rules prohibiting athletes from engaging in conduct that undermines the integrity of sport. On August 22, Shigesada submitted her request to withdraw from the Paris Paralympics, which the JPC accepted.
Shigesada issued a statement, saying, “I deeply apologize for the harm caused by my careless comments.”
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