But how does that benefit the sport? What happens if, knock on wood, Kaori can't compete somewhere or makes a big mistake? Maybe international judges don't pay attention to national scores? But if they do they'll get entirely the wrong impression of the other Japanese ladies.Kaori is obviously a favorite with the judges. Which in Japan means that you will get the same score you would internationally. However, I do think the judges would likely have given Higuchi higher PCS if she landed her 3A. So, with a rotated 3A she would lead by several points.