The female sumo wrestlers fighting for recognition – a photo essay

Sumo – a historical Japanese martial art and a longtime favourite sport of the nation – is open solely to male professionals. But female sumo wrestling does exist and thrive, mainly as a school or university club activity. While male wrestlers can earn money by participating in tournaments, for women it is almost impossible to make a living out of the sport. But female sumo wrestlers are fighting hard to be heard and to be allowed to practice at a professional level

Today, gender equality is on everyone’s mind and is a major subject of global debate. Inclusion in sport is no exception. However, many gaps remain. It is little known that sumo is open solely to male professionals. Women are not allowed to be part of this world, and as long as this tradition remains intact, sumo won’t become part of the Olympic Games.

Top: differences between female, left, and male sumo uniforms. Above: Nana Abe, a successful young female amateur wrestler, leads a training session in her local club. Right: a university sumo training session. Female wrestlers believe that fighting with their male counterparts makes them stronger. Far right: Nana and her sister Sakura used to train together