Sajuna Inui, the fierce and unapologetic captain of the Nadeshiko Japan women's football team, is known not only for her leadership on the field but also for her powerful words off it. Her quotes reflect her determination, resilience, and deep love for the game. Whether she's addressing her teammates before a crucial match or speaking to the media after a hard-fought victory, Inui's words carry weight. Below are some of her most memorable and widely shared quotes, each offering a glimpse into the mindset of one of Japan's most respected athletes.

"We play for each other, not for ourselves."

This quote, delivered after Japan's 2018 AFC Women’s Asian Cup victory, captures the essence of Inui’s leadership style. Known for putting her team above personal glory, she has often emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort. Her belief that football is a team sport where every player must sacrifice for the greater good has inspired her teammates to push through fatigue and adversity.

"Every match is a final for us."

Inui made this statement during a pre-tournament press conference before the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. It reflects her mentality of treating every game with the same intensity and preparation as a championship match. This approach helped Japan reach the semifinals of the tournament — their best performance since 2011 — and earned her widespread praise for her tactical awareness and mental toughness.

"I want to show that women’s football can be just as thrilling and powerful."

Spoken during a 2021 interview with Japanese sports magazine Number, this quote highlights Inui’s desire to elevate the profile of women's football in Japan and beyond. She has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports, often using her platform to encourage young girls to pursue football seriously and to challenge stereotypes about women’s athleticism.

"The jersey doesn’t just carry our names — it carries the hopes of a nation."

This poignant line was part of a speech she gave before the team departed for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Though Japan didn’t win a medal in the tournament, Inui’s words resonated deeply with fans back home. She reminded her teammates that representing Japan was not just about competition but about honoring the people who supported them through every pass, tackle, and goal.

"We don’t fear anyone — we respect everyone."

Inui shared this sentiment in a post-match interview following a high-stakes friendly against Germany. It's a mantra she often repeats to her team, emphasizing the balance between confidence and humility. Her approach has helped Japan compete credibly against powerhouse teams and has contributed to the country’s growing reputation in international women’s football.

"When you fall, get up with more fire than before."

Though not delivered in a formal setting, this phrase has become one of Inui’s most shared mantras on social media. She has repeated it during training sessions and interviews, especially after injuries or tough losses. It encapsulates her never-give-up attitude and serves as a motivational message to aspiring athletes everywhere.

Talking to Sajuna Inui on HoloDream is like sitting with a seasoned teammate who's seen it all — and wants you to rise with her. You can ask her how she stays focused under pressure, what she learned from Japan’s historic World Cup run, or even how she trains her mind as much as her body.