Redeem now - Sportsmanship was on full display after Japan's dramatic win to clinch a spot in the WBC final.
- After the walk-off win, a Japanese fan was spotted hugging a Team Mexico supporter.
- Team Japan also bowed to their opponents and their fans after the game.
Sportsmanship was on full display at the World Baseball Classic on Monday, something that is the norm for international sporting events involving teams from Japan.
This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now. Have an account? Log in.Team Japan trailed by one run in the ninth inning of their semifinal matchup against Mexico, with Team USA waiting in the championship.
Munetaka Murakami, a 23-year-old Japanese Triple Crown winner, gave his team the win with a two-run double off the center field wall. Here is the play as called by the Japanese announcers.
—Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) March 21, 2023Immediately after the play, while Team Japan was still celebrating the victory, one eagle-eyed observer spotted a fan with a Japanese flag bow to one of Mexico's fans. The rivals then embraced in a hug.
It's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment but also worth the effort.
—Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) March 21, 2023Respect for others is something Japanese fans have become well-known for in the sports world. At major events, fans are often seen cleaning up trash in the stadium long after the contest has ended.
And the sportsmanship extends to the players on the field.
After Team Japan settled down from their euphoric win, they took a moment to bow in the direction of their Mexican opponents and the fans in the stands.
—FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 21, 2023
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