Another week passes since the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio concluded and another significant international swimmer has announced his impending retirement. Joining the ranks of Japanese countryman Kosuke Kitajima, Takeshi Matsuda has revealed he will be hanging up his goggles after competing at his final meet next week, the 2016 National Sports Festival.
At 32 years of age, Matsuda has represented Japan at 4 consecutive Olympics, beginning with 2004 Athens and ending with 2016 Rio. His best individual performances came at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics where he snatched bronze in the men’s 200m butterfly at both Games. His 1:52.97 outing from London remains as the Japanese National Record in the event.
Matsuda also added a medal to his kitty in Rio as a member of his nation’s bronze medal-winning 800m freestyle relay. That marks his 2nd Olympic relay medal, as he was also a member of Japan’s 400m medley relay in London, which won silver.
Of his decision to defer retirement until after the National Sports Festival, Matsuda told the press, “Brazil is far. I wanted everyone in Japan to see me swim again.”
“I’ve been thinking for the past half a year about the situation I’d sign off under,” Matsuda said.
His career will complete a full circle of sorts, as Matsuda is scheduled to swim the 400m freestyle next week, the same event in which he finished 8th at his Olympic debut in Athens.
Great career. He gave Phelps a few good battles and his longevity in free and fly was impressive.
Always have to respect the Japanese. Gracious competitors and graceful technicians.
Just one correction. His 1:52.97 was in Beijing, not London. Regardless, he had a great career. Wish him well in his future endeavors!
Best wishes for new chapter in life! Thank you for the great races and swims for many years.
Goodbye Mr. Matsuda, although it’s a shame that we won’t see you in Tokyo I’m sure that we will see great things from the new wave of young Japanese butterflies that you have inspired. Best of luck to you in all your endeavors!
ciaxh kuze was really good with you and you both know each other since you were 4 years old good luck what ever you do
coach yumiko did a great job with you.and she is going to miss seeing you again