Internet users are applauding Canadian figure skater Keegan Messing after he unfurled the Japanese flag during a medal award ceremony at the 2019 Autumn Classic International on Saturday.
During the ceremony, where Messing won Bronze, the 27-year-old figure skater realized that the Japanese flag wasn’t noticeable when the country’s national anthem started playing, according to CBC.
Without a moment’s notice, Messing unfurled the flag behind gold medal winner Yuzuru Hanyu. The 24-year-old Japanese figure skater came down from his podium to face and give respect to his country’s flag, which Messing held for the duration of the anthem.
Hanyu then repaid Messing’s kind gesture by bowing to him after the anthem ended as the crowd cheered their showcase of sportsmanship.
Twitter users praised Messing for his gesture.
Keegan Messing-san
Many Japanese people love you because of your action for the national flag.
When you come to Japan at a skating competition, I will give you a lot of encouragement for your performance.
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