**After Delivering Babies, Ozawa Aims to Deliver for Japan in Padel Debut**
As padel makes its debut at the Asian Games, Japan's Kotomi Ozawa is stepping into the spotlight, transitioning from her previous role as a midwife to becoming a trailblazer in the world of padel. This shift may seem surprising to many, but for Ozawa, the skills and composure she developed in the high-pressure environment of a Tokyo hospital are proving invaluable on the international sports stage.
Ozawa, who previously worked at Keio University Hospital, has drawn parallels between her former profession and her current pursuit in padel. "Of course, it’s a very different job, but physically, midwifery is also very tough. You have to be strong," she remarked. The mental fortitude required to support families during critical moments in childbirth has equipped her with a unique perspective when facing the challenges of competitive sports. "Whenever I have a big match, it makes me feel calmer," she added.
The emotional intensity of delivering babies has parallels with the pressure of high-stakes matches in padel. "When you deliver babies, there is so much tension, and you have to help the mother make quick decisions," Ozawa explained. This ability to remain composed under pressure is a skill she has carried over to the court, where she emphasizes the importance of using all five senses to monitor the game, much like she did while monitoring a mother and her newborn.
Ozawa's journey into the world of padel has not been without its challenges. The sport is still in its infancy in Asia, with Europe and South America being the traditional powerhouses. "It was a tough journey as we had to fly to Europe or South America to train," she noted. Despite her love for her previous career, she felt compelled to pursue padel professionally, stating, "There are not many people here doing padel as a career. I wanted to try it, even if it was challenging, to build a pathway for the next generation."
Her determination has already begun to yield results, as Ozawa and her partner Chifumi Sato have successfully reached the quarter-finals in the women's pairs competition at the Asian Games. This achievement marks a significant milestone not only for Ozawa but also for the sport's growth in Japan and Asia as a whole.
While her focus remains on competing and achieving success in padel, Ozawa has not entirely closed the door on her healthcare career. She expressed a desire to merge her two passions, stating, "One of my dreams is to combine healthcare with sport. I love kids and looking after families, and I think sport helps communities a lot. It would be amazing to do them both again."
As she continues her journey in padel, Ozawa's story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the potential for individuals to redefine their careers and pursue new passions, even in the face of uncertainty. Her unique background as a midwife not only enriches her approach to the sport but also highlights the importance of mental strength and adaptability in both healthcare and athletics.
With the Asian Games providing a platform for her talents, Ozawa is poised to make a significant impact in the world of padel while also paving the way for future generations of athletes in Japan. As she competes, her journey underscores the interconnectedness of different fields and the valuable lessons learned from one profession to another.