Rommel the Japanese Dachshund Hangs them Up

He was a hero at the World Cup in Germany. He was loved by millions hundreds. He was a good luck charm during an 18-game unbeaten streak. He was inexplicably named after a German general. He has led a long and fulfilling life and it is only right that he gets some much needed rest and relaxation.

In a move that has left all of us feeling pangs of sadness the miniature dachshund named Rommel has been relieved of his duties as the lucky charm for the Japanese national team. Don’t blame it on his 2006 World Cup failings, however. Blame it the dreaded curse known as old age.

But after Japan’s meek exit from the tournament Rommel was stood down by his owner, Japan Football Association’s chief media officer Hideto Teshima.

“That unbeaten streak was always going to end in Germany,” Teshima told Reuters in an interview.

“You can’t really blame Ron. Japan weren’t going to win the World Cup. The time was right for him to walk away. He’s about 13 now, which in human years is 91. He’s getting on.”

It is always sad to see the career of an athlete or a mascot come to and end, but it is reassuring to learn that Rommel is doing so at the right time in his life. I will forever remember him for his grace under pressure.

“He knew he was famous,” said Teshima. “There would be times at home if he was stressed out he would bark and bite people. But at the World Cup once he had his uniform on, it was business.

“Ron knew he would be hugged by hundreds of people and handled it well. He knew it was his work. He wore his shirt with pride.”

Amen to that. Go well, fair Rommel. The desert awaits your foxy moves.

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Category: Asia