TOKYO (TR) – Scandal-hit professional mahjong player and gravure idol Mari Takamiya earlier this week bowed deeply following her first match of the M-League season, remaining tight-lipped over explosive reports of an illicit affair with a married commentator, reports Sports Nippon (Sep. 28).
The 37-year-old, who plays for the Konami Mahjong Fight Club, secured a top-place finish in her season debut Monday. However, it was her post-match interview that captured the public’s attention.
Before answering questions, Takamiya lowered her head in a deep, prolonged bow for several seconds. Despite the gesture of contrition, she made no direct mention of the cheating allegations currently hounding her.
On September 18, weekly magazine Smart Flash published a bombshell report accusing Takamiya of engaging in ryakudatsu furin — a Japanese tabloid term for a homewrecking affair — with 39-year-old pro mahjong player and M-League commentator Naoya Kono.
The sensational exposé reportedly included contents from a steamy “exchange diary” kept by the illicit couple, which contained highly vivid details of their relationship.
Takamiya, affiliated with the Japan Professional Mahjong League, is a prominent figure in the mahjong world, having captured titles in the Women’s Mondo Cup and the Women’s Pro Mahjong Japan Series.
She has competed in the M-League since 2018. Known for her highly aggressive playing style that earned her the nickname “Berserk,” Takamiya also maintains a successful career as a glamour model.
