Japanese volleyball superstar Ran Takahashi took their early exit at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship as a lesson learned for the team.

Takahashi and company have been eliminated from title contention at the 32-nation contest, following a 20-25, 23-25, 22-25 loss to Canada in Pool G on Monday, September 15, at the Araneta Coliseum.

He said that they would treat this setback as motivation to get better.

“It was a tough game for us. We started tough, but I think this is still a good experience for the future, for the national team,” said Takahashi.

“But, we have to improve, we have to grow up, and we have to ask more from us,” he added.

Japan slipped to No. 7, two ranks lower, after entering the tournament as World No. 5.

Takahashi, who led the Land of the Rising Sun’s scoring with 11 points, lamented about the team’s “issues” in-game.

“We still played so aggressively today, but we lost important points. We couldn’t find our rhythm. We have to ask for a near-perfect game in volleyball. We still have many issues,” he said.

The 24-year-old outside spiker acknowledged the support of their Filipino fans, calling it fuel to their game. He also vowed to give his all against Libya, their final task in Pool G.

“But as always, the Philippine fans gave me a lot of energy and support. We are so happy, but I want to show them and win. But I will do my best for the next game.” (ABS-CBN News)