Miho Takagi, a prominent figure in speed skating, has been honored with Japan’s People’s Honor Award in recognition of her exceptional achievements and influence on the sport.
ISU Skating, published in Japan, reports on this significant recognition.
The People’s Honor Award was presented to Takagi by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during a ceremony in Tokyo. This award is one of the highest civilian honors in Japan and is given to individuals who have made outstanding contributions and inspired others in fields such as sports, entertainment, and the arts.
Miho Takagi is the most decorated female athlete in Japanese history, participating in four Olympic Games (2010, 2018, 2022, and 2026) and earning a total of ten medals. Her gold medal achievements include winning the 1000 meters at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and the Team Pursuit at the 2018 PyeongChang Games. At the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, she obtained three bronze medals and concluded her career shortly afterward with another bronze at the 2026 ISU Speed Skating World Championships before announcing her retirement.
Beyond her medal record, Takagi has played a key role in advancing speed skating in Japan. Her versatility and career longevity have inspired a new generation of athletes in her country and internationally. She acknowledged the award as a tribute not only to herself but also to everyone who has contributed to the sport throughout its history in Japan.
Takagi is the second speed skater to receive this award, following figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu, who was honored in 2018 after his second Olympic gold medal performance.
Her career highlights include being the 2022 Olympic champion in the 1000 meters, 2018 Olympic champion in Team Pursuit, a total of ten Olympic medals, nine ISU World Championship titles, and 38 individual victories in ISU World Cup events.
