Badminton star Arisa Igarashi (née Higashino, 29, BIPROGY) took to Instagram on March 11 to announce her wedding ceremony held the previous day. The player, who won back-to-back bronze medals in mixed doubles at the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Olympics, formed a new women’s doubles partnership with Chiyo Shida last September.
In her Instagram Stories, Igarashi posted a photo of herself in a pure white wedding dress, writing: “Thank you to everyone who attended yesterday. I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have been part of our journey. I’ll share more posts soon.”
Several friends who attended the ceremony also shared their joy on social media. From the badminton world, Nami Matsuyama (Reishaku Pharmaceutical) posted: “It was a wonderful wedding. Every little detail reflected Arisa-san’s kindness. I’m so happy I could share such a special day with you.” Kana Nagahara wrote: “Igarashi & Arisa—congratulations once again! The ceremony was truly beautiful.” Aya Ohori added: “It was such a lovely ceremony. Arisa looked so cute. The afterglow will last for a while.”
Swimming star Rikako Ikee also shared a photo of the couple from behind, expressing her emotions: “Ahhh, I’ll give my best tomorrow while still basking in the afterglow!!!” Igarashi replied: “Thank you for my best friend’s and friends’ speeches. I cried. LOL.”
Igarashi announced her marriage to coach Yu-san after the 2024 Paris Olympics, stating via social media: “He is a kind, warm-hearted, and admirable person. Without his support, which always brings a smile to my face, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
