Trump Witnesses Sumo History At Summer Finals
On Sunday, 25-year old Asanoyama would not only walk away from the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament with the Emperor’s Cup, but with a special award from United States President Donald J. Trump.
Trump, who was at the event sitting in a chair and not the custom cushion, would attend the event with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, to watche the eighth ranked maegashira become the first rank-and-file wrestler since 1961 to win a grand tournament.
Thank you @JPN_PMO @AbeShinzo! #POTUSinJapan🇺🇸🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/fWToB1XotG
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 26, 2019
“I didn’t imagine this,” the 25-year-old told reporters at his Takasago stable in Tokyo. “I never thought I would win a championship within three years (of my debut), so I’ve surprised myself. I want to use this championship to build my confidence.”
Tonight in Tokyo, Japan at the Ryōgoku Kokugikan Stadium, it was my great honor to present the first-ever U.S. President’s Cup to Sumo Grand Champion Asanoyama. Congratulations! A great time had by all, thank you @AbeShinzo!! pic.twitter.com/nwwxJl6KXH
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 26, 2019
The accomplishment was more historic as the young competitor was the first grand tournament winner of Japan’s Reiwa imperial era, as he would walk out of Sumo Hall with a 12-3 record.
“I tried not to be too self-conscious, but when my name was called, and cheers (from the crowd) grew louder, I felt the pressure,” he said. “Wrestling under those circumstances was a great experience. I’m glad I was able to stick to my style of sumo.”
“It won’t be like the previous tournament. I need to prepare properly, starting from the basics. I want to finish with a winning record.”
Initial Report: Japan Times