Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani is known around the world for his extraordinary abilities as a great pitcher and hitter. Ohtani was born on July 5, 1994, in Oshu, Japan. Became the first Major League Baseball player to play both ways in decades. With extraordinary abilities, He revolutionized the game with the Los Angeles Angels, where he won the 2021 American League MVP, and is known for his humility and dedication.
Coupled with his unmatched skills and adaptability on the field, Ohtani set records and inspired supporters around the world. Here’s a closer look at the life, career, and personal details of this modern-day baseball phenomenon.
Who is Shohei Ohtani’s Wife, Mamiko Tanaka?
Former professional basketball player Mamiko Tanaka is the wife of Shohei Ohtani. The Los Angeles Dodgers player revealed he was married in February 2024 but did not say who his wife was at the time. When he was photographed with Japanese basketball player Mamiko Tanaka two weeks later, fans began to believe he had a secret wife.
Tanaka was born in Japan on December 11, 1996. She began playing the sport in middle school. She played for the Japan under-24 national team while studying at Waseda University in Tokyo. where she also won a silver medal from the 2017 summer university. When Tanaka joined the Fujitsu Red Wave of the Women’s Japan Basketball League in April 2019, she turned professional. Before retiring in 2023, she was a member of the team for four years.
Shohei Ohtani and Mamiko Tanaka’s Relationship Timeline
Shohei Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, are secretive, therefore we don’t know how or when they met. However, after he declared their marriage in early 2024, we were able to piece together a timeline of their connection. Take a look back at their romance here.
February 29, 2024: Shohei Ohtani Announces Marriage to Mamiko Tanaka
Fans around are shocked, On February 29, 2024, Shohei Ohtani released an Instagram post announcing his secret marriage.
Translated from Japanese, he wrote, “To all my friends and fans throughout, I have an announcement to make,” in the statement. “I wanted everyone to know that in addition to starting a new chapter in my career with the Dodgers, I also started a new life with someone from my native Japan who is very special to me.” I am now married. I am excited for what is to come and thank you for your support.”
March 14, 2024: Shohei Ohtani and His Wife Make Their Social Media Debut
The world quickly learned who Shohei Ohtani’s wife was, despite the fact that he did not disclose her identity in his first marriage announcement. Two weeks later, a picture of Ohtani and Tanaka boarding a plane with his teammate Mookie Betts and his wife to travel to Seoul, South Korea, for an international game was posted by the Dodgers’ X account.
Wheels up to Seoul. pic.twitter.com/NgeQYiwgS2
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) March 14, 2024
May 2, 2024: Shohei Ohtani and Mamiko Tanaka Make Their Red Carpet Debut
Last but not least, Shohei Ohtani and his spouse made their red carpet debut as newlyweds at the 2024 Blue Diamond Gala presented by the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. Before entering the event, the couple posed for pictures in matching black outfits and spent time with pop artist Ed Sheeran.
July 16, 2024: Mamiko Tanaka Joins Shohei Ohtani at the All-Star Game
Tanaka joined her husband at the MLB All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas, later that summer. Before he made his fourth appearance in the midsummer classic showdown, the two strolled the red carpet together and waved to spectators.
October 2024: Shohei Ohtani’s Wife Celebrates His Advancement to the World Series
Ohtani and the Dodgers continued to be dominant in the postseason as the regular season drew to a close. Tanaka was there for the team at every turn as they defeated the Padres and the Mets to secure a position in the World Series. She joined Ohtani on the field with their dog, Decoy, in addition to supporting her husband from the stands.
Conclusion
Shohei Ohtani has redefined baseball with his unique skills as both a pitcher and hitter. Alongside his career achievements, his marriage to former basketball player Mamiko Tanaka in 2024 has captured attention. Despite keeping their relationship private, their public appearances have intrigued fans. As Ohtani continues to excel with the Los Angeles Dodgers, his journey both on and off the field remains a captivating story.
