Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
At those crucial moments—like during daily practice or right before an important match—music stays by our side and gives us tremendous strength.
Many of you probably listen to your favorite songs to boost your spirits as you head into those special moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out uplifting, heart-stirring anthems that raise your motivation.
From upbeat tracks that fire up your fighting spirit, to relaxing numbers that wrap you in a sense of calm, to athletes’ personal favorites—we’ve gathered a wide variety of songs.
We hope you’ll find them helpful.
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Songs to Listen to Before a Match: Athletes Love Them Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Game-Day Tracks (141–150)
HappinessAI
A singer-songwriter who captivates fans with a remarkably powerful voice and a cute persona—AI—delivers her 24th single.
Many people likely know this song, as it was chosen as the theme for Coca-Cola’s “Christmas Campaign” commercials for five consecutive years.
Its positive lyrics, which feel like a wholehearted affirmation of oneself, are sure to boost the mindset of athletes about to compete.
With an uplifting pop melody carried by her emotional vocals, it’s a track you’ll want to hear before starting something new.
Tokyo VICTORYSazan Ōrusutāzu
A Southern All Stars number that brings to mind the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics.
Its melody, which feels like bright morning sunlight breaking through a dark night, gently builds motivation before an important match.
As the cityscape and the world gradually change toward the Olympics—while feeling a touch of loneliness, or even frustration at places that remain frozen as they are—you still push forward for your own hopes and someone else’s.
The lyrics share that kind of powerful resolve.
Recommended for those who prefer to warm up body and mind slowly rather than rev up all at once!
Fight MusicSEKAI NO OWARI
This is the song that men’s badminton player Kenichi Hayakawa says energizes him before a match.
It’s a track by the four-member band SEKAI NO OWARI, included on their major-label debut album “ENTERTAINMENT,” released in 2012.
The song has an energetic, pop vibe.
If you want to get pumped up before a match, give it a try.
[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Beloved by Athletes Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Victory Tracks (151–160)
peace signYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu’s song, written as the opening theme for Season 2 of the youth anime My Hero Academia, is an anthem that powerfully portrays courage and challenge.
While acknowledging weakness, it follows a protagonist who takes a step toward their dreams, intertwining with a driving melody that stirs the listener’s heart.
Released in June 2017, the track topped the Billboard JAPAN Hot Animation weekly chart and became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.
With its band-driven sound and Yonezu’s distinctive vocals, it’s a song that pushes all challengers forward.
Perfect for club practice or as a companion while watching sports—give it a listen.
prideGReeeeN
The vocal group GReeeeN wrote “pride” as a specially commissioned support song for the Summer High School Baseball Tournament.
The lyrics carry a message that single-minded effort leads to success and victory.
During practice, there may be times when you feel like your spirit is about to break, but when that happens, listen to this song to boost your motivation.
Combined with the powerful vocals, it’s sure to give you a push.
Also, don’t miss the music video featuring Hayato Sakamoto’s passionate comments.
Touchin On My3OH!3
Takeru, the fighter who enjoys overwhelming popularity as the face of the new K-1.
His bout against Tenshin Nasukawa at THE MATCH in 2022 gave us incredible emotion, didn’t it? “Touchin On My” is the song he uses for his walkout.
Compared to other K-1 fighters, his entrance has a strikingly dazzling presence.
I think that aura comes largely from his expressions and posture, but the musical production plays a big role too, don’t you think? Make sure to check out this gem of a track—catchy yet fully immersing you in a serious mood!
Rhyme Wave Phrase DisciplesCHEHON
A cornerstone of Japanese reggae, “Inna Kuto.” It’s the famous masterpiece by CHEHON, as everyone knows.
Although it was released in 2009, it remains popular today, and its 2022 performance on THE FIRST TAKE racked up an astounding number of views.
The song is also used as the entrance theme by Ren Hiramoto, a mixed martial artist known for his provocative performances.
If you want to boost your motivation with some fiery vibes, this is a must-check track!