The Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships, which also serve as qualifiers for the Los Angeles Olympics, opened in Frankfurt. With the top 3 finishers in the team and individual all-around events earning Olympic qualification spots, Japan has a younger team following the departure of 2 key members, with an average age of 18. Captain Taguchi Hisano (田口久乃) said she was determined to nail each routine in one go.
The Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships opened in Frankfurt, Germany. At this event, the top 3 finishers in the team and individual all-around events will earn qualification spots for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Japan won its first team all-around title last year, but with 2 key members retiring, the team has gotten younger this season, with an average age of 18, and has had fewer opportunities to contend for top spots at international competitions.
Captain Taguchi Hisano (田口久乃) of Tokyo Women's College of Physical Education said she felt the team was making progress, saying, "Each member has developed a strong determination to nail it in one go."
Taguchi, 19, joined the national team in 2023. She said she would be responsible for performing many high-difficulty skills and leading the team.