Tokyo opens 2025 Deaflympics with 3,081 athletes from 81 nations, celebrating a century since the first Games for global deaf athletes in 1924
THE Japanese capital officially opened the 2025 Deaflympics today, marking the first time Japan has hosted the event and commemorating 100 years since the inaugural Games for the global deaf athlete community in 1924.
A total of 3,081 athletes from 81 countries and territories gathered at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium not just to compete but to make their mark on history.
The athletes’ parade began with an emotional montage, with each contingent marching proudly into the venue.
The Malaysian deaf contingent entered 47th in the procession, featuring 25 athletes who made a striking entrance in peach-coloured baju Melayu and baju kurung with blue accents.
Chef de Mission Mohd Yusri Abdul Ghani, Deputy Chef de Mission Jasmine Choo and flag-bearer Foo Zu Tung led the Malaysian delegation with pride.
Members of the Japanese royal family attended the opening ceremony, witnessing the celebration and spirited display of athletes.
Official speeches were delivered by Japanese Federation of the Deaf president Ishibashi Daigo, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Crown Prince Akishino representing the imperial household.
International Committee of Sports for the Deaf president Adam Kosa officially declared the 2025 Deaflympics open in a historic moment.
The Deaflympics flag entered the stadium accompanied by the official anthem with sign language interpretation.
Former and current athletes lit the symbolic torch, igniting the competitive spirit of the Games.
All athletes then took their oath as the Japanese national anthem played.
An artistic performance titled ‘One Day in 100 Years’ showcased Japanese culture in vibrant and creative fashion, captivating the audience.
This edition features more than 200 medal events across 21 sports disciplines including athletics, badminton, basketball, beach volleyball, bowling, road cycling, football, futsal, judo, karate, swimming, taekwondo, tennis and wrestling.
Malaysia is targeting three gold medals, with two expected from badminton in women’s doubles and mixed doubles and one from tenpin bowling.
The national contingent will also compete in athletics and karate, carrying high spirits to maintain Malaysia’s strong international performances.
At the Brazil Deaflympics 2022, Malaysia secured two gold medals through women’s badminton doubles and women’s team tenpin bowling. – Bernama
