Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, recently revealed that he is married to Mamiko Tanaka, a former basketball player, in a move that took many by surprise, including his own teammates. The announcement followed Ohtani’s signing of an impressive 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers and came just as he gears up to compete in his second World Series.
Ohtani’s personal life has remained largely private, which has sparked curiosity among fans and commentators alike. His statement on Instagram highlighted the dual excitement of starting a new chapter in his career while also embracing a new life with Tanaka. “I have begun a new life with someone from my native country of Japan who is very special to me,” he expressed, thanking fans for their support as he navigates this personal milestone.
The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in April 2025, further adding to the joy surrounding Ohtani’s personal life. He publicly acknowledged the delivery on Instagram, expressing gratitude towards Tanaka while humorously reflecting on their new role as parents.
Despite the joy associated with his marriage and family, Ohtani’s decision to keep the relationship under wraps exemplifies certain cultural norms in Japan regarding privacy and family dynamics. Teammates like Chris Taylor and Kike Hernandez have voiced their surprise at the low-key nature of Ohtani’s wedding, with some good-naturedly expressing their bewilderment at being left out of such significant personal news.
As the Dodgers face off against the Toronto Blue Jays, Ohtani’s stellar performance on the field continues to draw attention. Known as one of the most recognized figures in baseball today, his excellence in the sport adds another layer of intrigue to his private life. Amid this backdrop, the beautiful aspect of Ohtani’s journey is his ability to balance his professional obligations while cherishing personal milestones, a testament to his character both on and off the field.