Lexus | Mori Riyo x Sugiyama Ai Discuss
Gallery

Lexus | Mori Riyo x Sugiyama Ai Discuss

The talk show finally began. Once the guests were assembled, they admired the video art by WOW, displayed in the first-floor "Garage."
With ample space between tables and seating, guests could relax and enjoy the talk show.
Ms. Mori spoke about the photoshoot in New York. "As the work was titled 'WILD CAT,' we pursued supple body lines like a cat's. The makeup was bold, and the nails were intricately crafted; it was a piece that pursued beauty down to the finest details."
Decorations included a Daruma doll evoking the New Year and horse figurines representing the zodiac.
The space design, imagining the home of a fictional character called "Mr. LEXUS," was by Masamichi Katayama. The display styling was handled by interior stylist Fumiko Sakuhara.
The home of the intellectually curious "Mr. LEXUS" features many books. Various genres line the bookshelves on the wall.
The second-floor lounge served as the talk show venue. Before the event, guests relaxed to pleasant music.
"Looking back, my peak as a player was around age 28," said Ms. Sugiyama. "Tennis is, of course, technical, but it's a sport where mental state has a huge impact, earning it the name 'mental sport.' While we easily say 'mind, technique, body,' you need more than that—you need to develop your human potential to compete globally. I think my physical, technical, and mental aspects were all aligned around that time. I felt I had the capacity to accept and resolve everything."
Ms. Sugiyama, who recently covered the Australian Open in Melbourne as a Grand Slam special commentator, said, "Kei Nishikori put on a superb performance. This year could be a year of change for him. I believe he'll break into the top 10 rankings."
Besides tennis, Ms. Sugiyama has started belly dancing. "For a woman's pheromones and hormones, the flexibility of the shoulder blades and hip joints is crucial," she explained. Ms. Mori strongly agreed, adding, "To stay youthful, posture is key. I recommend strengthening the flexibility of your neck and the back muscles between your shoulder blades."
The conversation turned to the recent sports boom. "Exercising can also help reset your mind," said Ms. Ikoma, discussing the joys of physical activity.
Regarding her beauty regimen, Ms. Sugiyama shared, "Since I was a player, I've focused on eating a balanced diet, as food is what builds the body. Also, I listen to my body and mind. My consecutive 62 Grand Slam appearances were possible, in part, because I responded to my body's signals one by one."
Responding to Ms. Sugiyama's emphasis on listening to one's body and mind, Ms. Mori added, "It's counterproductive to push yourself to the point where you can't do anything. Knowing your own limits is important." She continued, "Regarding beauty, hydration and moisture are always key. It's not about expensive cosmetics, but about finding what suits you and ensuring it penetrates well, even if it's affordable. Also, don't panic with sudden skin irritations. Maintain a minimalist routine until it calms down. When things go wrong, staying calm is crucial."
Navigator Yoshiko Ikoma also recently started machine training and swimming. "I thought only muscles could save me," she joked, drawing laughter from the audience.
Both women spoke of beauty and youthfulness radiating from within. "Negativity is the greatest rival," said Ms. Mori, sharing her method for overcoming slumps. "Weakness and unpleasant experiences are unavoidable in life, so I use them as whetstones to elevate myself. The 'future I want' must start now. First, visualize it. Look to the future, anticipate what's ahead, and act."
At the end of the event, the two demonstrated their regular stretches. Both can be done while seated, so the participants practiced along. Ms. Mori led stretches for the neck and shoulder blades, which influence "youthfulness." Ms. Sugiyama shared a breathing technique she has continued since her active career.
Visual design studio WOW expressed the world of photographer Fadil Berisha's work through video, while flower artist Masamasa Kawaguchi did so through floral art. The "LFA" was placed at the center of these three creations, completing a unified spatial installation.
Spatial installation "LEXUS BY THE BEAUTY." From left: Ai Sugiyama, Yoshiko Ikoma, Riyo Mori.
Chatting while admiring the spatial artwork. From left: Ai Sugiyama, Yoshiko Ikoma, Riyo Mori.
Photographer Fadil Berisha's photographic works and Riyo Mori.

Lexus | Riyo Mori x Ai Sugiyama Discuss "Essential Beauty" - Post-Event Report | LEXUS