The Japanese Imperial Family, including Empress Masako and Princess Aiko, attended a World Baseball Classic (WBC) match for the first time together, showcasing their support for the national team.
On March 8, the Japanese Emperor, Empress, and their daughter, Princess Aiko, arrived at the Tokyo Dome to watch the World Baseball Classic (WBC) match between Japan and Australia. The royal family, greeted by officials at the venue, expressed their excitement, with Empress Masako stating, 'We came here looking forward to it.' This event marks Princess Aiko's first time attending a WBC match, though she has accompanied her parents to baseball games in the past.
The Emperor and Empress have a history of attending WBC matches, having gone in 2006 and 2009 when they were Crown Prince and Princess. They watched the previous WBC finals on television and celebrated Japan's victory in the 2023 tournament—its first in 14 years—expressing admiration for the players from both the Japanese and American teams, reflecting their passion for sports.
The Emperor has publicly commended Japanese baseball player Shohei Ohtani multiple times, reinforcing the warm reception of Japanese players in the United States. Notably, during a meeting with former President Donald Trump last October, the Emperor shared sentiments about Ohtani, emphasizing the positive relationship between Japanese athletes and American society. This connection highlights the international reputation of Japan's sports figures and the cultural ties fostered through baseball.
