Nobuo Kinjo, the Japanese freestyle wrestler who has won gold at two Olympic Games, said he is ending his competitive career. The announcement came as the athlete posted a short video on his social‑media accounts, thanking fans and teammates for their support.
Kinjo’s retirement comes after a career that has seen him dominate the 57‑kilogram (125‑pound) weight class. He captured gold at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games and repeated the feat at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which were held in 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. In between, the wrestler also earned multiple World Championship medals, including a bronze in 2018 and a silver in 2022.
The wrestler’s decision appears to stem from a combination of factors. “I want to end my career on a high note and focus on my family,” Kinjo said. He also cited the physical demands of the sport and a shift in his priorities as important reasons for stepping away.
Japan’s Wrestling Association welcomed Kinjo’s decision and celebrated his achievements. “Nobuo has been a pillar of Japanese wrestling,” said the association’s director. “We are proud of his success and wish him great things in his future endeavors.”
Kinjo is 28 years old and has been training with Japan’s national team in Tokyo. During his career, he has become a role model for young wrestlers in Japan and around the world. His retirement opens up space in the national team, but Japan still has several promising athletes ready to take on the world stage.
The announcement comes at a time when the global wrestling community is preparing for the next Olympic cycle. Fans worldwide will remember Kinjo’s dramatic moves, his steady presence in the ring, and his iconic gold medals. While he steps off the mat, his legacy will continue to inspire future champions in Japan and beyond.
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