SPOKHAND X DEAFLYMPICS - Interview of Masaaki (Badminton - Japan)

Beyond the Net – The Story of Masaaki Numakura

Hello, I’m Masaaki Numakura, and I’m proud to represent Japan in badminton at the Deaflympics 2025 in Tokyo.

For me, badminton is more than a sport, it’s a bridge.

It connects people, breaks barriers, and reminds us that communication isn’t only about words.

It’s about energy, respect, and trust.

Preparation – Mind, Body, and Balance

I train regularly, combining badminton practice with fitness.

Every day, I focus on staying healthy — I eat well, sleep well, and keep my mind sharp.

I often train with hearing athletes.

At first, they were unsure how to communicate with me.

Then they noticed I used Japanese Sign Language (JSL).

We started using smartphones to exchange messages — and slowly, some of them began learning sign language themselves.

That moment changed everything.

We learned from each other.

They discovered the Deaf culture, and I discovered that connection goes far beyond sound.

My goal for Tokyo is clear:

🏅 to bring home the gold medal for Japan.

But more than that, I want to inspire unity — between Deaf and hearing communities.

Beyond Sport – One Community

I believe in something simple:

We shouldn’t be divided between Deaf and hearing people.

We need to stand together, learn from each other, and move forward as one.

For me, the Deaflympics are not just about competition —

they’re about belonging.

They show the world that Deaf athletes are powerful, skilled, and full of spirit.

Every match, every rally, is a chance to show what unity looks like in motion.

Message – Stay Strong, Stay United

To everyone watching the Deaflympics — Deaf, hearing, or learning sign language —

believe in your dreams.

Be proud of who you are.

Train hard, trust others, and never give up.

We all share the same court the world and when we play together, we win together.

🤝 Partners: spokhand.org – deaflympics.com

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