Hayashida Rico and Chu Moon-soo Claim Presidential Soft Tennis Titles
A dominant performance by Japanese athlete Hayashida Rico and a triumphant return for veteran Chu Moon-soo highlighted the 63rd Presidential Soft Tennis Tournament, concluding July 27, 2025, in Jeonbuk, South Korea. Both players secured gold medals in their respective singles categories, marking significant achievements in the prestigious competition.
Hayashida Rico Secures First Presidential Stage Victory
Hayashida Rico, representing the Sunchang-gun Office, clinched the women’s singles title, defeating Hyun-da-gyeom of the Incheon Sports Association in a compelling 4-2 match. This victory marks Hayashida’s first time topping the podium at the Presidential Soft Tennis Tournament. The competition took place on the seventh day of the tournament at the Sunchang Public Sports Complex.
Hayashida’s journey to the championship is particularly noteworthy, as she joined Sunchang-gun last year following a successful run as a gold medalist at the 2018 Jakarta and Palembang Asian Games. Her experience on the international stage clearly translated to success in this domestic competition.
Chu Moon-soo Returns to Form After 11 Years
In the men’s singles final, Chu Moon-soo of Suncheon City Hall demonstrated resilience and skill, overcoming Hunemizu Hayato from Suwon City Hall in a closely contested 4-3 match. This win represents a remarkable comeback for Chu Moon-soo, who last secured the Presidential title in 2014.
The victory signifies a return to peak form for the seasoned athlete, showcasing his enduring dedication and competitive spirit. According to reports, Chu Moon-soo’s performance was a testament to his years of experience and strategic gameplay.
The 63rd Presidential Soft Tennis Tournament concluded with both Hayashida Rico and Chu Moon-soo celebrating well-deserved victories, solidifying their positions as leading figures in the sport.
