Sumo: Suspended champion close to depression

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Tokyo, Aug 5: Troubled ''yokozuna'' Asashoryu is close to becoming clinically depressed following his suspension from two sumo tournaments, according to Japanese media.

The firebrand Mongolian was banned last week for playing soccer while supposedly injured. Today he was diagnosed as suffering from nervous strain, media reported.

Sumo officials are anxious to limit the fallout following media speculation Asashoryu wanted to seek medical attention in Mongolia.

While Asashoryu has been told to stay home following his suspension from major tournaments next month and in November, the Japan Sumo Association (JSA) sought to play down the significance of the wrestler's home confinement.

''If he doesn't cause any trouble he can go for walk, go shopping or go out to eat,'' JSA chairman Kitanoumi was quoted in Japan's Nikkan Sports daily.

''If we do establish that he really is having emotional problems then we will think about the best course of action. It's a delicate issue.'' Asashoryu asked the head of his sumo ''stable'' Takasago for permission to return to Mongolia but has been told to hold a news conference to apologise before he can think about leaving.

''It has only been a few days,'' Kitanoumi added.

''I've heard he's under mental strain but we won't allow him to go to Mongolia in order to clear him mind.'' The 150-kg Asashoryu upset Japan's ancient sport by turning out for a charity soccer match in Mongolia having withdrawn from a regional sumo tour with a back injury.

Asashoryu, whose real name is Dolgorsuren Dagvadorj, was promoted to sumo's highest rank of yokozuna in 2003.

He has won 21 Emperor's Cups but his short temper and constant breaches of protocol have landed him in hot water.

Reuters
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