Source: Sipa USA/Sydney
[Saba Sports News] On July 8, Japanese women’s doubles pair Matsuyama Nami and Shida Chiharu announced on their social media that they will officially split after the Badminton World Championships this year. Shida Chiharu stated in her post that the pair was formed with the goal of winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics and had worked together for about ten years. After the Paris Olympics, they faced an unprecedented dilemma, and despite multiple discussions, they ultimately decided to “fight until 2024” and have continued so far. While she is generally satisfied with the Olympic results, she still feels a sense of regret. She strongly desires to reach the top of the women’s doubles rankings and expressed her determination to continue competing. Therefore, starting from September, she will partner with a new teammate to strive for the number one position in women’s doubles. Matsuyama Nami stated in her post that words cannot express her gratitude for having Chiharu as a partner, which she considers a lifelong blessing. Although there are only three matches left, she sincerely asks everyone to support them until the very end. It is reported that after the Paris World Championships, Shida Chiharu will partner with Higashino Arisa for the events in September, while Matsuyama Nami’s new partner has not yet been determined.