Wrestling power Japan, which won four gold medals in London, reacted with dismay on Wednesday after Olympic chiefs said the 2020 Games would not include the sport, depriving the country of a rich source of medals.

"I really don't know why. I am so devastated that I don't know what to do," said Saori Yoshida, Japan's undisputed wrestling queen who has won a record 13 straight Olympic and world championship gold medals over 10 years.

Yoshida, a 55kg-class freestyle wrestler who last year received the government's "People's Honor Award" for her achievements, is the face of Tokyo's campaign to host the 2020 Games.

Japan Wrestling Federation Chairman Tomiaki Fukuda expressed his frustration at the decision.

Local media dubbed the IOC decision a "crisis for Japan's strong suit".

AFP

(China Daily 02/14/2013 page12)