Japan’s first international frescoball tournament, the JBG® Suma Frescoball World Cup 2025, was held over two days—October 4th and 5th—on the beautiful shores of Suma Beach in Kobe City.
Top players from around the world gathered, creating two days of unprecedented energy, emotion, and world-class competition. Two events took center stage: the high-speed, radar-measured PRO Match, and the perfectly synchronized TRINCA Match, featuring three-player rallies.
Each pair brought with them a unique story, showcasing their best rallies and representing their countries with pride. This tournament marked not only the dawn of a new era in global competition but also a historic milestone that elevated the potential for international growth in the sport of frescoball.
In this blog post, we’ll spotlight the award-winning pairs from the PRO Match category!
【PRO Match】
Men’s Category Award Winners
Men’s Champion: Filipe Gayan × Vinicius Nunes – 28,661 points
Prize: ¥50,000 presented by co-sponsors
Co-sponsors: Jumbo Ferry Co., Ltd. / MOL Sunflower Ltd. / Hankyu Ferry Co., Ltd. / Miyazaki Car Ferry Co., Ltd.
The champions of the men’s category were none other than the powerhouse duo from Brazil — Filipe Gayan × Vinicius Nunes!
Traveling from the other side of the world, the pair proudly showcased the strength and spirit of their homeland, securing a commanding victory.
Their performance was nothing short of breathtaking. With overwhelming attack speed and unwavering stability under pressure, they demonstrated a level of play truly worthy of the title “world-class.”
Their presence and performance served as a major inspiration for the Japanese frescoball community, setting a new benchmark for aspiring athletes across the nation.
We offer our deepest respect and gratitude for bringing such world-class play to Japan — thank you so much for coming!
Men’s Runner-Up: Yusuke Miyawaki × Naoya Kishida – 27,131 points
Yusuke Miyawaki × Naoya Kishida claimed an impressive runner-up finish, setting a new Japanese national record and coming within reach of the Brazilian champions.
Opting for a bold strategy, the duo maintained a rally distance of approximately 10 meters—an ambitious setup designed around the question: What does it take to win on the world stage?
Their aggressive attack style resulted in a 6% deduction due to drops, but it was a calculated risk born from commitment to growth. Without those drops, their raw score would have reached 28,863 points—surpassing even the champions.
This performance was undeniable proof that Japanese players can compete at the very top.
With the Brazilian Championship in December on the horizon, even greater things are expected from this formidable pair.
Men’s 3rd Place: Yuji Toyama × Kota Akatsuka – 26,010 points
Delivering one of the most emotionally resonant performances of the season, Yuji Toyama × Kota Akatsuka proudly secured a 3rd place finish in the men’s category.
Their rally was infused with deep passion—each ball a reflection of the countless hours of effort, challenges, and growth they’ve experienced together. The emotional depth of their story emerged vividly in every exchange, touching the hearts of those who watched.
Throughout the match, smiles naturally emerged between points, and their blend of power and warmth created a rally that was not only technically strong but also deeply moving.
It’s no exaggeration to say theirs was one of the most inspiring performances of the year.
【PRO Match】
Women’s Category Award Winners
Women’s Champion: Maya Ochiai × Misako Yamatouchi – 16,431 points
Prize: ¥50,000 presented by co-sponsors
Demonstrating their full potential as Japan’s top-ranked pair, Maya Ochiai × Misako Yamatouchi claimed a commanding victory in the women’s category!
With an astonishing 251 Over-50 attacks, they delivered a rally fueled by unrelenting offensive energy—truly the embodiment of “energia.”
While they recorded the highest number of drops among the top three teams, this only underscored their commitment to an aggressive, high-risk playing style.
Blending incredible attack speed with sharp, stable defense, their performance served as the perfect culmination of a season’s worth of growth.
As they prepare for the Brazilian Championship in December, all eyes will remain on this powerhouse duo.
Women’s Runner-Up: Yuki Miyama × Chikako Kazami – 15,437 points
Having led the forefront of Japan’s frescoball scene for many years, Yuki Miyama × Chikako Kazami delivered yet another exceptional performance, earning a well-deserved runner-up finish.
After achieving a historic milestone by winning the Brazilian Championship in June, the pair returned to the court with even greater refinement.
They recorded the fewest drops in the women’s category, showcasing unmatched consistency, laser-sharp focus, and an unshakable bond built through years of teamwork.
From quick reflexes to seamless coverage and naturally flowing transitions, their rally was a masterclass in precision and intuition—like two minds moving as one.
Their long-standing experience shone through brilliantly in a performance that resonated with elegance and mastery.
Women’s 3rd Place: Hanako Okai × Sayaka Matsumoto – 14,789 points
Achieving their personal best score as a pair, Hanako Okai × Sayaka Matsumoto captured an impressive 3rd place finish in the women’s category!
Matsumoto delivered blistering attacks reaching 75 km/h, the fastest in the category, while Okai responded with pinpoint defensive returns that complemented the pace with grace and control.
Their synergy produced a uniquely balanced rally—Okai’s precise setups made every shot hittable, while Matsumoto’s fearless aggression drove the tempo.
Their clean, efficient play was paired with constant smiles and visible enjoyment on court, making their performance not only technically impressive but also a joy to watch.
A pair to watch closely in the seasons ahead!
【PRO Match】
Mixed Category Award Winners
Mixed Champions: Kota Akatsuka × Yuki Miyama – 26,438 points
Prize: ¥50,000 presented by co-sponsors
Rising to the top of an elite mixed category showdown, Kota Akatsuka × Yuki Miyama captured a dramatic and well-earned championship victory!
The margin? A razor-thin 30 points—a single moment could have changed the outcome. Yet, in this pressure-packed battle, they never wavered from their aggressive approach.
Even off-target balls were returned with fierce attacks, embodying a fearless, all-in strong style that electrified the crowd.
Their relentless mindset, sharp decision-making, and unshakable commitment to pushing their limits produced a rally that was nothing short of spectacular.
It was a championship won not just with skill, but with heart, courage, and pure competitive spirit.
Mixed Runner-Up: Maya Ochiai × Naoya Kishida – 26,408 points
Displaying exceptional consistency paired with moments of explosive brilliance, Maya Ochiai × Naoya Kishida secured a commanding runner-up finish in the mixed category!
Their rally featured remarkably few off-target balls and a strikingly high attack rate from defense, reflecting a highly polished performance.
Built on a foundation of solid stability, their offensive flow resembled a meticulously choreographed dance—both powerful and elegant.
In the final phase, Kishida launched a barrage of high-speed attacks, met with flawless defensive control by Ochiai, showcasing her adaptability and poise under pressure.
Never losing focus, the pair continued to push their score with unwavering determination until the very last ball, captivating everyone who witnessed their performance.
Mixed 3rd Place: Filip Gayan × Yuki Miyama – 24,973 points
A dream collaboration between Brazil’s and Japan’s finest, Filip Gayan × Yuki Miyama secured an impressive 3rd place finish in the mixed category!
Despite limited practice time and a virtually on-the-spot pairing, their combined experience and adaptability allowed them to quickly find rhythm and chemistry on court.
Filip, a world-class Brazilian representative, and Miyama, a leading figure in Japanese frescoball, brought out the best in each other—trading high-energy attacks with seamless coordination.
Their synergy in both offense and defense resulted in an exhilarating rally that lit up the venue and thrilled the audience.
It was a high-level performance that proved great players can transcend borders and expectations.
【PRO Match】
Master Category Award Winners
Introduced last year, the Master Category has quickly become a vital part of Japan’s frescoball landscape.
While no Japanese pairs were able to participate in the Brazilian Championship last season due to delays in international delegation, this year marks a turning point—all Master Category representative pairs have proudly declared their intent to compete in Brazil!
Not only did they shine in this tournament, but they also emerged from a season-long battle for national selection, proving themselves as Japan’s most seasoned and skilled competitors.
We look forward to seeing their passion and performance unfold on Brazilian soil, where they’ll represent Japan with pride and excellence!
Master Men’s Champion: Yoichiro Ishikawa × Kazuaki Inoue – 5,394 points
Carrying deep determination and a promise to “absolutely become Japan representatives,” Yoichiro Ishikawa × Kazuaki Inoue turned that vow into reality with a commanding championship victory in the Master Men’s category.
Throughout the season’s fierce selection race, the pair consistently showcased exceptional stability—and in this tournament, they achieved both their personal best score and fewest drops in the category.
Inoue launched powerful attacks reaching up to 63 km/h, while Ishikawa responded with passionate, precise defense, crafting each rally with care and control.
Their performance was the embodiment of hard work and belief taking form—a powerful, polished rally built on years of dedication.
Master Women’s Champion: Natsuko Suzuki × Fuyuko Sendō – 4,200 points
Making history as the first-ever sister duo to represent Japan, Natsuko Suzuki × Fuyuko Sendō claimed a well-deserved championship win in the Master Women’s category at the World Cup!
Suzuki impressed with her elegant attack form, skillfully pulling in even the most difficult inside balls and returning them with force and precision.
Sendō, on the other hand, showcased outstanding defensive consistency, consistently placing the ball at the ideal speed and location for her partner’s next strike.
Their seamless communication and mutual trust—hallmarks of their sibling connection—were evident to everyone watching, resulting in a rally that radiated both finesse and unity.
Master Mixed Champions: Tōru Gotō × Akiko Gotō – 6,662 points
Dominating throughout the season, Tōru Gotō × Akiko Gotō delivered a masterful rally and claimed a well-earned championship title in the Master Mixed category!
Proudly stating that they “practice more than anyone,” the pair could often be seen in Zushi, using a speed gun and adjusting their techniques through constant trial and error.
Their rallies showcased a refined blend of technical skill, strategic awareness, and deep trust—truly a performance that embodied maturity and experience.
With consistent communication and a warm, focused atmosphere on court, their play naturally drew in the audience.
Achieving a new personal best score in this tournament, the Gotōs continue to evolve—and their journey is far from over. Keep your eyes on them!
【PRO Match】
Best Rally Award
Best Rally Award: Cobi Haiat × Victor Barda
Award: Two types of bags presented to each player by NEW ERA
Representing Israel, the pair Cobi × Victor were honored with the Best Rally Award at this year’s tournament!
Despite facing uncertainty due to the impact of war in their home country and not being able to confirm participation until the last moment, they made the incredible decision to travel all the way to Japan to compete in the World Cup. Their courage, passion, and commitment deserve the highest respect.
In Israel, the dominant racket sport is Matkot, which uses a smaller ball and lighter racket than frescoball, with the focus on rally count.
Bringing that background to the court, Cobi and Victor delivered an explosive, full-swing Matkot-style attack that was nothing short of spectacular.
Their high-energy performance lit up the venue, delivering a rally that captivated the crowd from start to finish.
Traveling solo all the way from Spain, Jose Asensio, paired with Japan’s Takuma Ōkawa, earned a Best Rally Award with a performance that thrilled the crowd!
Jose, who works as a jewelry designer by day and a DJ by night, brought not only his unique presence but also an explosive style of play. His powerful attacks—his signature weapon—were on full display, delivering one sharp, thunderous shot after another.
Together with Ōkawa, the pair executed highly synchronized volleys, captivating the audience with a rally full of speed, flair, and excitement.
It was a dynamic and electrifying collaboration that left a lasting impression on everyone watching.
【PRO Match】
Fashion Award
Yoshihiro Matsui × Jun Park
Award: One case of “Żubrówka Apple Zoo” presented by Leadoff Japan Co., Ltd.
Bridging the worlds of Japanese and Korean frescoball, Yoshihiro Matsui × Jun Park were honored with the Fashion Award at this year’s World Cup!
Jun, the president of the Korea Frescoball Association, teamed up with Matsui—an active promoter of international player exchange. Together, they competed in the tournament wearing their own custom-designed T-shirts.
Upon hearing about the tournament’s announcement, Matsui traveled directly to Korea to personally invite Jun to participate. Jun wholeheartedly embraced the invitation, and their cross-border partnership was born.
Their presence on the court embodied a spirit of friendship, passion, and international unity. As symbols of cross-cultural connection, their future as ambassadors between Japanese and Korean frescoball communities is incredibly bright.
The JBG® Suma Frescoball World Cup 2025 was truly a dream come true.
Thanks to the incredible support from frescoball players across Japan, the enthusiastic participation of all the international athletes, our generous sponsors, and the Japan Beach Culture Promotion Association, this historic event was able to take place in its full glory.
We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude once again.
But this is only the beginning.
We cannot let this be a one-time event. As a launching point toward the next stage, we—at the Japan Frescoball Association—are more committed than ever to further growing and spreading the sport of frescoball.
We kindly ask for your continued support and partnership on this journey.
Contact Information
Japan Frescoball Association (JFBA)
Secretary General: Yasuto Ariyoshi
Phone: +81-3-6304-3295
Email: contact@frescoball.org