The Los Angeles Dodgers star continues to etch himself among the greatest in the sports world.
Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani has accomplished something only three other world class athletes have achieved.
Ohtani was named AP’s Male Athlete of the Year, his fourth time winning the award. Ohtani ties LeBron James, Tiger Woods and Lance Armstrong for the most among male athletes.
The accolade caps off a year to remember for Ohtani, who earned his second consecutive World Series ring after the Dodgers overcame the Toronto Blue Jays in an epic Game 7 battle last month. His two-way greatness helped his team to the mountain top yet again and earned him 29 of 47 votes in balloting among sports journalists from the AP and its members.
Ohtani expressed his gratitude in a Japanese exclusive interview with the AP.
“First of all, being selected from among such outstanding athletes is truly wonderful and a great honor,” he said. “Also, receiving this award multiple times alongside the legendary athletes you mentioned is something truly special.
Ohtani won the award in 2021 and 2023 as a member of the Los Angeles Angels before winning it again in 2024 in his first year with the Dodgers. After winning his third, Ohtani set his sights on another one. Now, he is looking ahead to 2026.
“Last year, I said I wanted to win this award again, and I will work hard so that I can win it again next year as well.”
Ohtani also expressed gratitude for the fans who watched on television and came to Dodgers stadium to support him and his fellow Japanese teammates, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki.
“During the season, so many people not only watched on TV but also came to Dodger Stadium to cheer us on in person,” Ohtani said. “That was truly special for me and the other two Japanese players.”
Ohtani closed the interview by looking ahead to playing in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Japan currently holds the most titles with three and are the most recent winners (2023). Ohtani was integral to Japan’s success two years ago, as he was named MVP of the 2023 tournament and is remembered for famously striking out former teammate Mike Trout for the final out in his team’s victory.
Looking ahead to 2026, Ohtani hopes to showcase a memorable performance.
“I’ll be playing in the WBC, and if I can deliver performances people can enjoy, I think that would be the greatest joy I could offer.”
“I hope I can give back in that way.”
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