TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Fans flooded Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) social media on Sunday (Nov. 24), urging the president to declare a national holiday to commemorate the triumph of the Taiwan national baseball team. Team Taiwan clinched a historic win at the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Premier12 championship on Sunday after a 4-0 victory over Japan.
President Lai expressed gratitude in a Facebook post, highlighting that this victory marks Taiwan's return to the global stage after a 32-year hiatus since the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. He praised the team's performance, and emphasized the nation's spirit of perseverance and determination, which led to this achievement.
Lai commended the team's exceptional defense and aggressive base running, which united the nation and impressed the world. He thanked the coaches, medical staff, and supporters, calling each one a member of Team Taiwan, and declared that the championship belongs to everyone.
Looking ahead, President Lai announced plans to honor the team with a fighter jet escort on Monday as they return home. The president will also host a reception at the Presidential Office and organize a hero's parade to celebrate the victorious athletes. The nation eagerly anticipates the homecoming of its baseball heroes.