Sakura Kokumai is a Team USA Karate athlete, Olympian. As the first American to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in karate’s Olympic debut and became the only female to have represented US in the sport. Sakura made history not only for her achievements in the sport but also for her role as a trailblazer representing Asian American women in athletics.

Born in Hawaii and of Japanese descent, Sakura began practicing karate at the age of 7. What started as a childhood activity quickly became a lifelong passion. Over the years, her discipline, focus, and relentless pursuit of excellence propelled her through the ranks of elite competition. She has since earned multiple national championships, Pan American titles, and top finishes at World Karate Federation (WKF) events, solidifying her place as one of the top kata athletes in the world.

Sakura is fluent in English and Japanese and earned her degree from Waseda University in Tokyo, and Doshisha University in Kyoto, balancing her academic pursuits with intense international training and competition. Her unique bicultural perspective has allowed her to build strong relationships in both the American and Japanese karate communities, contributing to her well-rounded approach as both an athlete and ambassador for the sport.

Her Olympic journey was marked not just by athletic milestones but also by moments that underscored her strength beyond the mat. In 2021, during her training in California, Sakura experienced a public incident of anti-Asian harassment. Her calm and powerful response drew national attention and made her a prominent voice in the conversation around AAPI identity, resilience, and representation. Rather than allowing the incident to define her, she used it as a platform to speak out against hate and encourage unity through sports and shared humanity.

Beyond competition, Sakura is passionate about giving back to the community. She regularly speaks to young athletes, mentors students, and advocates for greater inclusion and visibility in sports. Her story is one of quiet strength, cultural pride, and unwavering dedication to a craft that demands both physical and mental discipline.

As she continues to train and compete at the highest level, Sakura remains focused on her mission: to elevate the sport of karate, inspire the next generation, and show the world what’s possible when passion and purpose align.