Shogi Star: "Choose Baby or Career" Under Official Rules

A top professional shogi player has publicly criticized the game's governing body, saying its rules punish pregnancy and force women to choose between having children and continuing their careers. Shogi, often called Japanese chess, is a national pastime. The Japan Shogi Association's rules state that if a player cannot participate in an official match, they must forfeit. This includes absences due to childbirth or pregnancy-related health issues. Professional player Kana Satomi, a former women's champion, highlighted the problem. She noted that while male players can take leave for other reasons, the current system offers no protected maternity leave for women. A player who forfeits multiple matches risks demotion or loss of professional status. "The rules essentially force female players to choose between their child and their shogi career," Satomi stated. She called for rule changes to introduce proper maternity provisions. The Japan Shogi Association acknowledged the issue and said it is considering revisions to its regulations. The debate has sparked wider discussion about traditional professional sports and gender equality in Japan.