Shohei Ohtani, a professional baseball player hailing from Iwate Prefecture, Japan, has taken the world by storm since joining Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2018. What sets him apart? His rare “two-way” talent—excelling as both a pitcher and a hitter—a feat so extraordinary it’s captivated fans globally. Ohtani’s popularity in Japan is unmatched among sports figures. A survey by the Sasakawa Sports Foundation (conducted June to July 2024 with 3,000 respondents nationwide) found that 41.5% named him their favorite athlete, leaving volleyball star Yuji Nishida (3.6%) and boxer Naoya Inoue (2.1%) far behind (Asahi Shimbun). So, what makes Ohtani a national icon in Japan? Let’s dive into the reasons.
1. Unmatched Talent and Historic Achievements
Ohtani’s two-way prowess is the cornerstone of his fame. In 2024, he smashed records with a .310 batting average, 54 home runs, 130 RBIs, and 59 stolen bases, becoming the first designated hitter (DH) in MLB history to win the MVP award. His leadership in Japan’s 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC) victory—where he also snagged the MVP title—sent his domestic popularity soaring. These feats don’t just thrill baseball fans; they inspire everyday people with “dreams and excitement,” making Ohtani a larger-than-life figure.
2. A Humble and Hardworking Spirit
Beyond his stats, Ohtani’s personality wins hearts. Known for his humility and relentless work ethic, he’s the kind of guy you can’t help but root for. Back in high school, he famously created a “Mandala Chart,” setting a goal to be the top draft pick for eight teams and breaking it down into over 80 sub-goals covering skills, fitness, mindset, character, and even luck—a testament to his dedication. His warm smile and strong bonds with teammates align perfectly with Japanese values, earning him even more love. Who wouldn’t admire someone so grounded yet so driven?
3. Media Spotlight and Everyday Relatability
In Japan, Ohtani is everywhere—TV, online news, social media—you name it. His jaw-dropping 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024 (about 101.5 billion yen) was a nationwide sensation (Asahi Shimbun). A Hakuhodo DY Media Partners survey (August 2024, 600 people aged 15-69 in Tokyo and Osaka) rated him highly in 16 of 29 positive traits, like “intelligence,” “mental strength,” and “inspiring dreams”. This constant coverage makes him feel like a friend to millions, bridging the gap between superstar and regular guy.
4. Inspiring the Next Generation
Ohtani’s influence on young athletes is undeniable. His two-way style has sparked a trend, with high school and college players aspiring to follow in his footsteps. In 2022, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters drafted Kouta Yazawa as a two-way player in the first round—a clear nod to Ohtani’s impact. A U-18 U.S. team player even said, “Shohei has completely changed the game,” showing how he’s given kids new dreams to chase. As a role model, he’s reshaping Japanese baseball for the better.
5. A Symbol of National Pride
Ohtani’s global success fills Japan with pride. His MLB dominance and the 2023 WBC win have made him a national hero. Plus, his charitable efforts—like supporting Iwate’s recovery after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake—deepen his connection with fans. For many, he’s not just a baseball star; he’s a source of honor and inspiration on the world stage.
Popularity Across Generations
While Ohtani’s appeal is broad, it varies by age. The Sasakawa survey showed over 50% of people in their 60s and 43.8% in their 50s picked him as their favorite, compared to just 18% of 18-19-year-olds (Asahi Shimbun). Experts from Hakuhodo’s Youth Research Institute suggest younger folks might lean toward other sports or entertainment, but his overall favorability stays sky-high across all ages.
A Perfect Fit with Japanese Values
Ohtani embodies cultural ideals like diligence, teamwork, and humility. His habits—like cleaning the locker room or picking up trash—and his fan-friendly gestures, such as impromptu autograph sessions, strike a chord with Japanese fans. It’s this blend of talent and character that makes him so beloved.
Memorable Moments That Win Hearts
Ohtani’s charm shines through in little stories, too. After the 2024 World Series win, his wife Mamiko Tanaka’s celebratory fist pump went viral, lighting up media coverage. His improving English and playful teammate banter only add to his relatability.
Wrapping It Up: Ohtani’s Lasting Impact
So, why is Shohei Ohtani so popular in Japan? It’s a perfect storm of jaw-dropping baseball skills, his groundbreaking two-way style, a humble and hardworking nature, constant media buzz, and a positive ripple effect on young athletes and the sport itself. These elements weave together to make him a one-of-a-kind icon.
