Shohei Ohtani had a night to remember after winning his third career MVP award on Wednesday, but it wasn’t just his stunning finish that captured fans’ attention. During the live announcement, a subtle but unexpected fist bump between Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, became a viral moment, sparking reactions from fans around the world.
A Celebration with a Twist
Ohtani, who was crowned the unanimous National League MVP after a record-breaking season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, was surrounded by family and friends as Clayton Kershaw announced his victory. Amid applause and excitement, Ohtani exchanged a celebratory fist bump with Tanaka, a low-key yet affectionate moment that quickly became a focal point on social media.
Fans flooded the comments sections with reactions, many finding the gesture adorable. “Was that his wife he had a fist fight with?!?!” one user exclaimed, while another added, “Punch?! They are so cute.”
Others noted how the gesture reflected cultural norms. “A public display of affection for a married Japanese couple is not in their culture,” one fan explained, while another noted, “Speaking as an Asian, this is quite normal.”
Meet Mamiko Tanaka: Athlete and Partner
Mamiko Tanaka, who married Ohtani earlier this year, is no stranger to the spotlight. A former professional basketball player in the Women’s Japan Basketball League, the 5-foot-11 forward played for the Fujitsu Red Wave before retiring in 2023.
Ohtani announced their marriage in February 2024 via Instagram, sharing that he was starting a “new chapter” in both his career and personal life. Tanaka’s athletic background and their shared competitive spirit seem to have created a unique bond between the two, something fans were quick to notice.
“She’s a player too, so they’re all family,” one commenter pointed out, linking their athletic synergy to their playful fist bump.
Ohtani’s Winning Year
Ohtani’s unanimous MVP win cemented his place as one of baseball’s greatest players, thanks to his historic 2024 season that saw him hit 54 home runs, steal 59 bases and lead the Dodgers to a league title. World Series. While the spotlight was on his accomplishments, the tender moment with Tanaka reminded fans of the human side of this iconic athlete.
For Ohtani and Tanaka, it’s clear that 2024 has been a year of achievement—both on and off the court.
