July 23, 2021
Bureau of Olympic and Paralympic Games
Tokyo 2020 Preparation
Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Comments by Governor Koike Yuriko on the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

Governor Koike Yuriko has made the following comments on the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 held today.

Governor Koike’s comments

The Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 was held today. The long-awaited 2020 Games are finally underway. This important day would not have been possible without the support of many people. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone.

At the Opening Ceremony, which was based on the “United by Emotion” concept, I was reminded of the role of sports and Olympic values, especially amid the days we have spent under the threat of COVID-19, and hoped for people to come together and support each other. I believe that we were able to deliver hope and courage, as well as Japan’s traditions and new culture, to the people of the world.

Great moments in which “people shine” are about to play out before our eyes. While going through various struggles during this extraordinary one-year postponement, including working to secure an environment in which to practice and adjust competition schedules, the athletes of the world continued their arduous training for the Tokyo 2020 Games. Let’s convey our heartfelt support to the disciplined athletes who give their all to sport so that they can give their best performance.

We will make the Tokyo 2020 Games an amazing event that lives on in the hearts of many and serves as a beacon of hope for the people world.