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Figure skating star Hanyu announces divorce

Nov 18, 2023 (NHK) - Japanese figure skating superstar Hanyu Yuzuru says he has decided to divorce after tying the knot just three months ago.

The two-time Olympic champion made the announcement on Friday via social media.

Hanyu says he, his wife, their families and related parties have all been subject to slander, stalking and unapproved reporting.

He announced his marriage in August, but did not say who his partner was, prompting speculation about her identity and heavy media coverage.

Hanyu says it became extremely difficult to protect both himself and his wife. He says he decided to divorce in the hope that she would lead a happy life without any trouble.

Hanyu won four consecutive Grand Prix Finals, two World Championship titles, and back-to-back Olympic golds at Sochi in 2014 and PyeongChang in 2018.

The 28-year-old announced his retirement in July 2022 following the Beijing Olympics. He now performs as a professional.

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