Kyoto native Fumiaki Tanaka, a former Japan scrum-half who played in three Rugby World Cups, announced his retirement at the end of the current League One season with second-division Green Rockets Tokatsu. Standing tall at 166 centimeters, Tanaka has been instrumental in Japan’s success on the international stage and has left a legacy of dedication and excellence in the sport.
In a press conference held in Tokyo, Tanaka expressed his pride in being able to compete at the highest level despite his small stature and in contributing to the growth of Japanese rugby. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for the development of rugby in his home country and was deeply moved by the overwhelming support shown by fans during the team’s parade after the 2019 World Cup.
Tanaka played a key role in Japan’s impressive quarterfinal finish at the 2019 World Cup, which was held in Japan. He was also part of the Highlanders team that won the title in Super Rugby league in 2015. With 75 caps for Japan under his belt, Tanaka leaves behind a legacy of skills on the field and commitment to elevating Japanese rugby to new heights. Former teammates and rivals alike have praised his contributions to both international and domestic rugby.