Japan wins the 19th British Table Tennis Open.
For the first time since the end of the Pacific War,
a Japanese athlete has triumphed on the world stage.
His name is Koto Endo.
This underdog from Japan brought shame to the American frontrunner,
beating him three games in a row.
It is reported that 100,000 people awaited his return to Tokyo.
However, Mr. Endo says he is returning home not a hero but a humble craftsman.
At the age of 16, Mr. Endo lost his hearing during the Great Tokyo Air Raid.
Without the distraction of sound, he tuned himself to the rhythm of the game.
And so, with the entire table tennis community turning its attention to Japan,
Tokyo has been chosen to host this year's World Championship.
The American will surely return, desperate to reclaim his pride.
But Endo will not step onto the court alone.
Behind him, 84 million souls join hands
with the determination of a nation reborn.