In an impressive display of athletic talent, professional runner Kuroda Asahi dramatically diminished a significant 46-second difference down to a mere 23 seconds, the athletics equivalent of a blink of an eye. This event unfolded during an intense race in Japan, where Kuroda's perseverance against his rivals captured national attention. His comeback has served as a defining moment in his rising career.

In Japan, professional sports, especially athletics, embodies values such as discipline, hard work, and perseverance. The nation takes great pride in their athletes’ performance, making such achievements an exciting and widely discussed topic. Kuroda's significant decrease in gap during the race, therefore, is a source of national pride.

In the US and EU, the reaction to such athletic feats would be similar, with national pride at stake in athletic achievements. However, the individualistic approach often highlighted in Western culture contrasts the group unity and mutual support often prioritized in Japanese culture.