Recently, the official website of the AFC released the exciting news that Japanese female referees shared their deep feelings about participating in the enforcement of the World Cup in Qatar in an interview with AFP.
Although she was not able to personally take to the green field of the World Cup, Ms. Yoshimi Yamashita was still involved in the enforcement of the tournament as the fourth official. It is worth mentioning that German-born Stephanie Frappat made a historic breakthrough at this World Cup by becoming the first woman to referee at the Men's World Cup, a feat that attracted widespread attention in the world of soccer.
Regarding the World Cup, a soccer event, Ryoomi Yamashita said that it is an important milestone in the history of soccer development. She strongly urged FIFA officials to cherish this opportunity and lay a solid foundation for the development of female referees. "These efforts will pave the way for the future, and I look forward to seeing (female referees enforcing in men's soccer matches) develop better in the future. If it stagnates, then it will all be lost. I am fully committed and hope to continue contributing to this cause in the future."
Talking about Frappat's experience as a referee in the match between Germany and Costa Rica, Ryoomi Yamashita couldn't help but say, "The appointment she received gave me a heartfelt sense of joy." She believes that this event opened up new possibilities for women in soccer, and she witnessed it come to life.
