Kimie Bessho, a 78-year-old Japanese para table tennis player known as “Madame Butterfly,” competed at the opening day of table tennis at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya. Adorned with 27 butterfly pins symbolizing her 27 years of international competition since 1999, Bessho stood out for her distinctive hairstyle and long career.

Bessho began playing table tennis after an illness left her unable to use her legs. Five years later, she made her Paralympic debut at the 2004 Athens Games. Over more than two decades, she has represented Japan in four consecutive Paralympics as well as numerous international events, earning a reputation as a familiar and respected figure on the global para table tennis circuit.

On the eve of her first match, Bessho was seen engaging warmly with teammates, receiving a panda ornament as a token of good luck. Her opening opponent was Zhang Bian of China, a highly skilled player Bessho had joked about hoping to avoid. Despite careful preparation, including changing the rubber on her paddle, Bessho lost in straight games, acknowledging the strength of her Chinese adversary. “The standard of table tennis in China really is different,” she said.

The following day, Bessho faced Panwas Sringam of Thailand, a 24-year-old silver medallist from the 2022 World Para Table Tennis Championships. Although she fought back intensely in the second game, Bessho ultimately fell in three games. The conclusion of her singles campaign left her visibly emotional, shedding tears of disappointment.

However, beyond the competition results, Bessho described the tournament as a deeply meaningful opportunity. It marked the first time her children and longtime supporters could watch her compete in person, after seeing only photographs throughout her extensive career. “I’ve been competing around the world for more than 20 years, but my children have never actually seen me play,” she said.

With the Asian Para Games being hosted in Japan this year, Bessho dedicated herself to improving her world ranking through overseas competitions to secure her place in the event. Reflecting on her experience, she said, “Winning matters, of course. But I’m grateful to everyone who’s come to support me. I hope they’ll think ‘Grandma really gave it her best.’ Perhaps that will mean something to someone one day,” she added with a smile.

Bessho’s enduring presence in para table tennis highlights her resilience and passion for the sport, as well as the personal significance of representing her country on home soil at 78 years old.