Sawa has competed for the Japanese women's football team at four Olympic Games, including last year at London 2012 when they were defeated 2-1 in the final by the United States at Wembley Stadium.

The midfielder won the Ballon D'or for 2011 after leading Japan to their first ever FIFA Women's World Cup title at Germany, winning the Golden Ball for best player and the Golden Shoe for top scorer, hitting five goals. 

"I have felt how exciting competing in the Olympics can be, and the atmosphere at London 2012 was incredible" Sawa told insidethegames.

"I think that Tokyo would have the same, or even a better atmosphere than London"

"It would be a dynamic celebration, for sure"

Sawa was named as the best female footballer in the world for 2011 as she received the Ballon D'or alongside Men's winner Lionel Messi

The 34-year-old retired from international football immediately after the 2012 Olympics, but she has not ruled out a possible comeback should Tokyo win the bid to host the 2020 Games against its rivals Istanbul and Madrid. 

When asked whether there was any chance she would come out of retirement if the Japanese capital is awarded the 2020 Games by the International Olympic Committee at its Session in Buenos Aires on September 7, Tokyo-born Sawa avoided the question.

"I don't know," she said with a broad smile on her face.

But Sawa was certain of her main goal from the proposed Games in Tokyo - leaving a lasting legacy to encourage more young children to get involved in sport and to "believe that they can achieve anything"

"If we host the Olympics in 2020, I believe we can inspire children all over the world, not just in Asia"

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
January 2013: Tokyo 2020 Games would be "sheer bliss" says Paralympic swimmer Suzuki
January 2013: Political stability will help Tokyo 2020, claims new Governor
January 2013: Cash rich Tokyo 2020 promises "Delivery, Celebration and Innovation" if awarded Olympics
January 2013: New Japanese Prime Minister appointed Supreme Advisor to Tokyo 2020 bid
January 2013: Tokyo odds-on favourites to win 2020 Olympic race, claim bookmakers