Hina Hayata, the 2024 Paris Olympics women’s table tennis bronze medalist, took to Instagram on the 12th to reflect on her team’s silver medal finish at the World Team Championships—the sixth consecutive silver for Japan. The 25-year-old Nippon Life Insurance athlete expressed both gratitude and self-criticism after the tournament.
“Thank you so much for all the support over the past few days,” Hayata wrote. “We finished as runners-up at the World Championships in London. It was a painful period throughout the competition, but I’m grateful to my incredible teammates and the staff who supported us behind the scenes, allowing me to stay on the court until the very end.” Yet she also admitted her disappointment: “But right now, I don’t feel like I’ve achieved anything close to the gold medal that is everyone’s dream and goal. I’m truly sorry if I’ve let down my teammates and everyone who cheered for us. This is my current level of ability.”
Having lost two matches in the final against China, Hayata acknowledged her struggles going forward. “To evolve from here, I’m still unsure of what steps to take, or even if I’m looking ahead correctly. But I’m taking in all the encouraging messages—and the tough ones too. Thank you,” she wrote. “No matter how much I worry, time doesn’t stop. So I want to live each day without regret. Thank you for all the support despite the time difference!”
Fans and followers flooded the post with comments such as: “You gave it your all—that’s what matters. I want to see you keep evolving!” “You gave me courage!” “No matter what anyone says, you were truly impressive and wonderful.” “There’s no way we’re disappointed; I’m always captivated by your fighting spirit.” “Don’t apologize—you’ve never disappointed us.”
