Japanese fan consoles Mexico supporter immediately after Team Japan's dramatic World Baseball Classi

Publish date: 2024-09-22

Redeem now

Sportsmanship was on full display at the World Baseball Classic on Monday, something that is the norm for international sporting events involving teams from Japan.

This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.

Team Japan trailed by one run in the ninth inning of their semifinal matchup against Mexico, with Team USA waiting in the championship.

Munetaka Murakami, a 23-year-old Japanese Triple Crown winner, gave his team the win with a two-run double off the center field wall. Here is the play as called by the Japanese announcers.

—Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) March 21, 2023

Immediately after the play, while Team Japan was still celebrating the victory, one eagle-eyed observer spotted a fan with a Japanese flag bow to one of Mexico's fans. The rivals then embraced in a hug.

It's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment but also worth the effort. 

—Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) March 21, 2023

Respect for others is something Japanese fans have become well-known for in the sports world. At major events, fans are often seen cleaning up trash in the stadium long after the contest has ended.

And the sportsmanship extends to the players on the field.

After Team Japan settled down from their euphoric win, they took a moment to bow in the direction of their Mexican opponents and the fans in the stands.

—FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 21, 2023

 

A picture of a switch and lightbulb Sign up for notifications from Insider! Stay up to date with what you want to know. Subscribe to push notifications

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o8HSoqWeq6Oeu7S1w56pZ5ufonyrrc%2BapWalla22pLuMn5inZZiqtG7DzqujnWWSlsCmrsClo2abnJbAtLXCZq6ipl1nfXN%2FjGw%3D