Source: REUTERS/Ann Wang
[Saba Sports News] During the Paris Olympics, Japanese badminton player Chiharu Shida gained significant attention for her stunning looks, becoming many fans’ “most beautiful female athlete.” Perhaps even Shida herself didn’t expect this wave of attention to reach her faraway hometown—Seigenji Temple in Hachirogata, Akita Prefecture, Japan. What surprised many even more was the revelation that her father is the head priest of Seigenji Temple, and her mother has also taken religious vows, with the family deeply influenced by Buddhist culture. In a recent media interview, Shida’s father addressed a topic of great concern to fans: her future path. He expressed confidence that his daughter would find her own way and would not become a nun. This response provided some relief to fans who were worried about her future. Some fans commented that, despite Shida’s unique family background, her parents have never interfered much with her career choices, always respecting her interests and providing the greatest spiritual support. Shida’s success in the badminton world is the result of a combination of family culture and personal effort.