I would like to express my sincere happiness that the "Fifth Sumo World Championships" are being held here in the Ryogoku Kokugikan with the participation of 39 countries. In addition, I pay my deepest respects to everyone involved who has endeavored to promote and popularize sumo in the world since the "First Tournament."
The history of sumo is long. It started in "contests of physical strength" that made their appearance in myth. These became the sumo of sacred divination. In the due course of time, events that presented sumo as a Shinto ritual spread to every area. It can be said to have become a unique development closely connected to Japan's people and cultural climate. In this way it is a Japanese time-honored traditional asset. Sumo, which is called the national sport of Japan, is becoming familiar throughout the world. This is something that makes me truly happy.
I, naturally, hope that all the athletes that have participated from around the world will fully display the results of their long training. I also hope that mutual understanding among the participants will be deepened through sumo, and that they, in addition to being able to form enjoyable memories on this occasion of coming into contact with Japanese tradition and culture, will form great friendships with friends from around the world.
In conclusion, I pray for the success of this tournament and the further development of sumo.
