For years, the Philippines had been a place of heartbreak for Japan’s fan-favorite Ran Takahashi. During past visits for the Volleyball Nations League, the 24-year-old outside hitter dazzled Manila crowds with his explosive plays — only for misfortune to strike at the worst possible moments.
Three years ago, Takahashi suffered an awkward landing that sidelined him for the remainder of the 2022 VNL leg hosted in Manila.
His comeback in 2023 never fully materialized due to an undisclosed injury in Japan, and history seemed to repeat itself when a similar incident forced him out of the 2024 edition.
But in 2025, the story finally changed.
Unfazed by what many jokingly call the “Philippine curse,” Takahashi completed a full tournament in front of a raucous Manila crowd during the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship — a full-circle moment three years in the making.
“I didn’t know that, but I’m so excited. First thing that’s important is we have to win in front of them. Philippine fans always give me a lot of energy and power. They push us, and I always appreciate it,” Takahashi said after pouring 11 points on nine attacks in a straight-sets victory over Libya to close the World Championship.
Although Japan fell short of advancing to the Round of 16, Takahashi left Manila with a lasting silver lining: the joy of finally giving back to a “special” Filipino crowd that had cheered him on through triumphs and setbacks alike.
“You know, the Philippines is so special to me. I’ve never felt a crowd like this before. They push us, and this is the first time I’ve finished a tournament in the Philippines,” the Suntory Sunbirds star shared.
Beyond soaking in the adoration of a near-home crowd, Takahashi also highlighted the rising prominence of Asian volleyball.
Japan’s growing presence, combined with the historic performance of the Philippines, signals a new era on the sport’s global stage — even as traditional powerhouses like the USA, Argentina, World No. 1 Poland, and defending champion Italy continue to dominate.
This momentum is particularly significant for the Philippines, as Alas Pilipinas Men achieved a milestone with a four-set triumph over defending African champion Egypt — the country’s first World Championship win in 64 years.
“For sure, it’s completely different. In Europe and America, players are taller and more powerful. But Asian players have technique and intelligence. This is different, and we have to grow in this. But for sure, we have a chance. We can win against them,” concluded the 6-foot-2 hitter.
#WATCH: After wins for both the Philippines and Japan in the #MWCH2025, Ran Takahashi celebrates the rise of Asian volleyball! 🇯🇵🇵🇭🏐
📹 @ErnestTuazon /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/vCSNYUC0bK
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 17, 2025
