諦めたらそこで試合終了

This famous quote comes from the popular Japanese manga series 'Slam Dunk' (スラムダンク), written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue. It was first serialized in 'Weekly Shōnen Jump' from 1990 to 1996. The line is spoken by Coach Anzai (安西先生, Anzai-sensei) to his team member Hanamichi Sakuragi. Coach Anzai, a wise and experienced basketball coach, uses this phrase to motivate Sakuragi, who is prone to giving up when things get tough during a basketball game. The full quote is often remembered as 「諦めたらそこで試合終了だよ」 (Akirametara soko de shiai shūryō da yo), with the 'da yo' adding a more emphatic and somewhat paternal tone. The impact of 'Slam Dunk' on Japanese popular culture, especially in the realm of sports and youth, was immense. The manga sold over 120 million copies, making it one of the best-selling manga series in history. It also had a highly successful anime adaptation that aired from 1993 to 1996. Due to the widespread popularity and cultural influence of 'Slam Dunk,' this particular quote transcended its original context and became a common idiom in Japan. It is now frequently used in various situations, not just sports, to inspire resilience, encourage people to keep fighting, and remind them that the moment they quit is the moment they truly lose. The phrase encapsulates a strong cultural value in Japan that emphasizes effort, perseverance (頑張る - ganbaru), and the belief that continuous striving is crucial for achieving goals. Its origin in a beloved sports story reinforces its message of never giving up, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.