Wilson badminton team

From Next magazine issue 2/2009. Text by Kirsi Hyytiäinen

Sho Sasaki signed a contract with Wilson in early 2009. At the Wilson Badminton Swiss Open held in March, Sasaki made it to number 22 in the Asian-dominated world rankings.

Sasaki shows up at the interview in Basel wearing a Wilson [K] Factor shirt and accompanied by a physiotherapist who doubles as an interpreter. The polite Japanese bow is left aside on court where Sasaki focuses on bombarding his opponents.

“My integration into the Wilson team has only just begun. I train on my own and don’t know the other players all that well, but I respect them highly and the team spirit is good. The new Wilson racket feels great,” says Sasaki through his interpreter. Sasaki understands the questions asked in English, but uses an interpreter to make sure that his answers convey the intended meaning.

“I joined Wilson because I was itching to be a part of the challenger team, the one doing its best to rattle the dominant market position of Asian companies. I hope this will also open the door for other Asian players. Change is always a challenge, and I feel the pressure to succeed. Failing right at the beginning is a scary thought,” says a thoughtful Sasaki in the hotel lobby.

The Asian wants to make steady progress in his career. You will not hear him talk about over-ambitious goals for the 2012 London Olympics or this year’s Badminton World Championships, hosted by India in August.

“The Olympic team has not yet been selected, but I do hope to be on it. If I make it that far, I will be glad to accept the challenge,” says Sasaki, who plays on the Japanese national team.

“Apart from that, my goal is to rise to the top ten in badminton and do my absolute best in each match.” In a typically Asian manner, Sasaki emphasizes his hope to do well in the Wilson team but also as an individual player.

“At the national team camps we improve our flexibility and agility in physical training. The program also includes yoga, something I recommend to all athletes. It helps you concentrate and boosts mental strength.”

Badminton is a popular game in Japan, but, according to Sasaki, only women players are recognized in his home country.

“Men are left in the shadow. I hope to do my bit to raise the popularity of the sport, to make it more like tennis, which has a much more exciting and appealing public image. The simple fact that badminton competitions are always played inside makes a difference. Outdoor tennis courts offer a more attractive setting.”

Sasaki’s hobbies have always involved a ball. “I used to play tennis and baseball, but no longer have time for them. When I’m on the road, competing, I relax by going shopping. I also use the Internet to get fashion products,” says Sasaki.