Japan men's volleyball superstar Ran Takahashi is amazed by the support from Filipino fans every time he's in the country.
Whether it’s on the taraflex or outside of it, Japan men's volleyball star Ran Takahashi can feel the support of Filipino fans whenever he visits the country.
Takahashi is no stranger to playing in the Philippines, having played with the Ryujin Nippon during the past three Volleyball Nations League (VNL) legs hosted in Manila.
Every time he steps into the court, the 22-year-old outside hitter is amazed by the cheers and applause he receives from his Pinoy supporters—some of which even know how to commute with him in Nihongo.
“I was really surprised because the [fans are] supporting really strongly, and it was like the stadium was shaking, and I think I feel like [the] emotion that I'm really supported by these fans,” Takahashi said in Nihongo during a press conference held by Akari, after he was named as the company’s first international brand ambassador.
And in true Filipino humor, he was asked about his favorite number available to be pressed in electric fans.
@onesportsphl ANONG PABORITO MONG NUMBER SA ELECTRIC FAN? 🤔 In true Filipino fashion, Japanese volleyball star Ran Takahashi shares his favorite number on the electric fan. 🤣 | via Jamie Velasco/One Sports Digital #OSTimeout #SportsonTiktok
? original sound - OneSportsPHL
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Takahashi is coming off the Olympic Games Paris 2024, where Japan finished in eighth place. He also finished his stint in Italy, previously playing for Vero Volley Monza in the SuperLega.
Prior to this, Takahashi also participated in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg. However, he only played a single game before heading back to Japan to recover from his knee injury.
[ALSO READ: Japan's Ran Takahashi ruled out for remainder of 2024 VNL Manila Leg]
That’s why one of his biggest lesson this year is the importance of taking care of one’s body.
“The most important thing I take care of is my physical health. If I get injured, it affects my play. That's the most important thing. I always stretch before I go to bed, and I always keep in good condition,” said Takahashi.
“That's the same for my volleyball skills. I always take care of my body. I think it's important that I always take care of my body,” he added.
Now that he is back in the country without the need to play volleyball, Takahahi is also just looking to enjoy his time in the Philippines.
“I come to Manila every time I play. It's a part of my life. It's hard to go somewhere to travel, but I can go to Cebu Island after this,” said Takahashi. “It's my first time going to a tourist destination. If there's a good place, I'd like you to tell me.”