Japan defeated the United States in the softball final and won the gold medal for the first time since the Beijing tournament 13 years ago.


This is the full interview with pitcher Yukiko Ueno, the ace who started the four games in seven days from the first game on the 21st and led the team as the main pillar.

--- How do you feel now when you grab the gold medal?



I'm really impressed.



--- How did you feel at the mound at the last moment?



On the way, when I saw Goto (pitcher) who threw me in relief pitched with a pale face and full, I was inspired to say, "I'll do it myself."

Thanks to that, I was able to throw with a strong feeling at the end, and it was really nice to meet everyone's expectations in the end.

--- What kind of thought did you have when you started the pitch?



I thought this was what I was carrying, and I think I've come this far with various thoughts for 13 years to stand on this mound.

In that sense, I stood on the starting mound with the idea that I would definitely throw it until I couldn't throw it.



--- What is the weight of the gold medal for the first time in 13 years?



Unlike the previous gold medal, there was a lot of pressure at the local event.

I was watching Director Reika (Utsugi) nearby, and I thought she would be crushed by the pressure day by day.

I wanted to help even a little, and I'm glad I was able to give back this kind of gratitude at the end.

--- Will it be "gold" that will lead to the future softball world?



After 13 years, I think many people have been told that "If you don't give up until the end, your dreams will come true." Softball will disappear again from the next (Olympic Games), but I hope I can move forward without giving up.