The Japan Sumo Association said a lower-ranked wrestler has tested positive for COVID-19, marking the first confirmed case in the country’s traditional sport.
The wrestler, whose name and stable has not been disclosed, belongs to one of the sport’s lower divisions, the JSA stated. He first developed a fever, but none of his stablemates or officials has complained of symptoms of the virus.
“It made me realize that infections exist close around us. I hope from the bottom of my heart that (the wrestler’s) condition doesn’t become severe,” said Shibatayama, the association’s communications director.
“The situation around the world has become more serious. We need to decide the direction we are going (with the meet).”
“We wear masks where possible, wash hands, disinfect hands… We have been taking normal prevention measures,” he told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“We don’t visit other stables to practice. We have been practicing in our stable only. We go out only for (grocery) shopping… Stress is building up in many people,” he added.
