Shogi Grandmaster Watanabe Akira has declared he will be taking a break from the board due to complications arising after surgery. The timing and nature of the surgery have not been disclosed. Fans of the nine-dan player, amongst the top-ranked in the world, are hoping for his speedy recovery and return to the beloved traditional board game.

In Japan, Shogi—often called Japanese chess—has a deep-rooted cultural significance and a wide fanbase. Hence, status updates about top players like Watanabe directly impact the social fabric. Fans and followers look forward to his matches and the hiatus may disappoint them. Yet Japanese societal norms highly value personal well-being and health, with understanding and support expected in response to this news.

In the US or EU, news about a top player's health can have significant influence as well, considering the popularity of stratagem games such as Chess. Player welfare is of utmost importance, and fans often sympathize and support their favorite players through health issues and pauses in play.