Source: REUTERS/AMANDA PEROBELLI
[Saba Sports News] On January 21, the Japan Badminton Association announced the new national team roster for 2025 on its official website. Japanese badminton star Yuta Watanabe, who has competed in both men’s doubles and mixed doubles, unfortunately did not make the cut. Yesterday, Watanabe responded with a lengthy statement, revealing that he actively declined the invitation to represent the national team. The main reason for this decision was the poor financial situation of the Japan Badminton Association, which has seen a reduction in its budget. It was revealed that before August 2024, the Japan Badminton Association would cover the competition entry fees, accommodation, and various local expenses for players selected for the national team. However, due to deteriorating financial conditions, the association has reviewed and revised the relevant budget regulations, changing this policy. Starting from September 2024, globally low-ranked players will have to bear their own competition expenses, even if they are selected for the national team. If selected, they would also face various restrictions, such as designated uniforms and sponsors, and would not be able to freely accept advertising engagements. In response, Watanabe stated that his team consists of more than ten members, and due to the low world ranking of his new partner, they would essentially have to self-fund their participation in all competitions after the Paris Olympics. He felt that under the financial constraints of the national team, it would be challenging for their team to operate. After careful consideration, he decided to decline the invitation from the Japan national team, believing it would allow his team to more easily secure sponsorships and participate in events to gather funds for competition expenses.