Tokyo: The 30-year-old Rio Olympic women’s doubles gold medalist Ayaka Takahashi and 26-year-old Yuki Kaneko have tied the knot on December 30, 2020.
Takahashi took to her personal Twitter to announce the good news.
“2020 is almost at a close. This year is a crucial year for me as a 30-year-old. I have made several major decisions this year. First, I decided to end my 24-year badminton career. Thanks to the support of many people, I was able to play badminton for so long. I want to thank my family, friends, company, and fans. Thank you very much.”
“Then, I married Mr. Yuki Kaneko, he is also a player from the Unisys Co., Ltd. badminton club. We have been dating for a while. In what seems an astounding coincidence, my husband and former women’s doubles partner, Misaki Matsutomo, have formed a mixed doubles partnership and are aiming for the 2024 Paris Olympics. I’ll be the strongest supporter of these two people in the future.”
“After retirement, my badminton life has changed suddenly. I have to get used to new things at work and in my life. Every day is very busy but very fulfilling. The world is now facing a serious pandemic, and I want to stand strong in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak. Whether it is now or in the future, I shall continue to do my best. Wish you all a Happy New Year!”
Takahashi announced her retirement in August 2020, while her former partner Misaki Matsutomo and Yuki Kaneko just won the silver medal at the All-Japan championships that concluded last week. The pair proved that they are on the right track to aim for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
