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Why Japan’s leader Takaichi won’t enter the male-dominated sumo ring

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Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi skipped a sumo awards ceremony, reflecting her cautious approach to gender issues.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi skipped a sumo awards ceremony, reflecting her cautious approach to gender issues.

PHOTO: REUTERS

Javier C. Hernández and Hisako Ueno

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TOKYO – When the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo reached its adrenaline-pumping conclusion on Jan 25, thousands of spectators cheered as star athletes were feted inside Japan’s most prestigious wrestling ring.

But someone was missing: Japan’s Prime Minister, who typically hands out a giant gilded trophy at the tournament.

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