Shohei Ohtani, the highest-paid MLB player and a prominent figure in the sports world, values his privacy, particularly regarding his personal life. The Los Angeles Dodgers player confirmed his marriage in February 2024 but initially kept his wife’s identity undisclosed.
However, speculation arose when he posed for a photo with Japanese basketball player Mamiko Tanaka two weeks later, leading fans to believe she was his wife.
Shohei Ohtani and Mamiko Tanaka: A New Chapter
In February 2024, Ohtani announced his marriage via Instagram, expressing his excitement for both his new career chapter with the Dodgers and his new life with his special someone from Japan.
He thanked his fans for their support and expressed his joy in beginning this new journey.
Shohei Ohtani announces marriage to Mamiko Tanaka, blending sports prowess with personal happiness in February 2024.
Mamiko Tanaka, born on December 11, 1996, is a former professional basketball player from Japan. She began her career at Waseda University and went on to play professionally for the Fujitsu Red Wave in the Women’s Japan Basketball League.
Tanaka retired in 2023 after a notable career, including a shooting rate of 47.7% from the field and 69.9% from the free throw line in her final season.
Ohtani and Tanaka have made occasional public appearances together, including a rare outing at the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Blue Diamond Gala in May 2024, where they posed for a photo with Ed Sheeran.
Despite their high-profile status, Ohtani describes Tanaka as a “normal Japanese woman,” emphasizing their desire for a private and supportive relationship.
Life Together and Public Debut
Two weeks after announcing his marriage, Ohtani shared a photo with Tanaka and their translators before a trip to Seoul, South Korea, for the Dodgers’ season opener.
Mamiko Tanaka, a former Japanese basketball star, supports Ohtani’s MLB career while maintaining their private life.
The Dodgers’ official social media also shared images of the couple, confirming Tanaka as Ohtani’s wife. Ohtani expressed his excitement for the upcoming season and their journey together.
Upon arrival in Seoul, Ohtani and Tanaka were greeted by fans. The couple walked together from the plane, with Ohtani waving to fans and Tanaka smiling as she followed.
This public display highlighted Tanaka’s support for Ohtani’s career and their mutual respect for privacy while acknowledging their fans’ interest.
Ohtani’s marriage to Mamiko Tanaka marks a significant personal milestone for the athlete, complemented by his professional achievements with the Dodgers. Together, they helm the balance between their public and private lives, supported by their fans and each other.
