Skip to main content
Work with the NEU
Baseball is more than just an American sport
Following Japan’s victory over the US at the World Baseball Classic this week, JAMES NALTON looks at the sport’s popularity across the world
Japan pitcher Yu Darvish celebrates with his teammates after defeating the United States in World Baseball Classic championship game, Tuesday, March 21, 2023, in Miami

JAPAN confirmed their place as the current dominant force in international baseball, winning the 2023 World Baseball Classic final against the United States in Miami on Tuesday night.

The final was a fitting end to the tournament which had proved extremely popular around the world, drawing TV viewers in their millions and creating some memorable sporting stories.

It also witnessed a historic semifinal clash between the United States and Cuba in Miami, during which there were anti-Cuba protests while members of the Cuban party were targets of hostility.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Chelsea's Joao Pedro is congratulated by Enzo Fernandez after scoring his side's second goal during the Club World Cup semi final against Fluminense in East Rutherford, New Jersey, July 8, 2025
Men’s Football / 11 July 2025
11 July 2025

Joao Pedro’s emotional goals against Fluminense captured the magic of an international club competition. But even as fans bring colour and passion, the Club World Cup’s deeper issues loom large, writes JAMES NALTON

Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani takes selfies with supporters after speaking at his primary election party, June 25, 2025, in New York
Men’s football / 27 June 2025
27 June 2025

JAMES NALTON writes how at the heart of the big apple, the beautiful game exists as something more community-oriented, which could benefit hugely under mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani

Music artist Nezza sings the national anthem prior to a baseball game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Francisco Giants in Los Angeles, June 14, 2025
Baseball / 19 June 2025
19 June 2025

Singer Nezza’s rendition of the US national anthem in Spanish has ignited important conversation around arrests made by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, writes LESLIE AMBRIZ

Gianni Infantino
Men’s football / 23 April 2025
23 April 2025

JAMES NALTON discusses the use of dynamic ticket pricing at the 2026 World Cup and how it amplifies a culture already set up to squeeze as much money from fans as possible