Eight years after his silver medal win in Rio, Japanese wrestler Rei Higuchi finally stood atop the Olympic podium in Paris, claiming gold. His journey to the top was not without its challenges. He missed the Tokyo Olympics after failing to make weight at the Asian qualifiers, a personal struggle that led him to empathize deeply with Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who faced a similar fate in Paris.
Higuchi, in a conversation with Sportstar, shared his thoughts on Vinesh’s disqualification and his own triumph in Paris. He revealed that after winning gold, his primary desire was simply to sleep, having been consumed by the anticipation and anxiety of the competition. He expressed a fondness for French cuisine, especially macarons, which he indulged in after his victory.
Looking ahead, Higuchi stated that he wants to travel with his family and explore potential new ventures, including a possible foray into mixed martial arts (MMA). He remains committed to wrestling but recognizes that his career might be nearing its end.
Higuchi’s empathy for Vinesh stemmed from his own experience of missing the Tokyo Olympics due to weight issues. He posted a message of support for her, urging her to take things slowly and move forward. He emphasized the importance of support during difficult times, having benefited from it during his own struggles.
While acknowledging the current rules regarding weight limits, Higuchi expressed his understanding of Vinesh’s appeal to the Court for Arbitration of Sport (CAS) for a silver medal. However, he maintained that he could not personally support the decision.
Reflecting on his success, Higuchi attributes his gold medal win to his single-leg takedown technique, his adaptability, and his composure under pressure. He highlighted the importance of mental training and a balanced approach to training and rest, which he believes contribute to Japan’s dominance in wrestling.
He also praised Aman Sehrawat, his opponent in the semifinals, for his physical strength but recommended that he focus on strengthening his defensive game and paying attention to his diet and nutrition. Higuchi’s victory in Paris and his genuine empathy for Vinesh Phogat showcase his strong character and highlight the challenges and rewards of a dedicated athlete’s journey.
