Japan's Keito Nakamura photo book tops sports category for first time
Japan national team forward Keito Nakamura's photo book 'Natural: Keito Nakamura of Japan National Team' has topped the Oricon weekly sports-related book ranking for the first time. The book, which features private and unreleased photos of the popular World Cup 2026-bound player, climbed from third to first place in the ranking dated July 20, achieving its highest position since its release a year ago.
Content and popularity of the photo book
The photo book includes 222 photos, such as relaxed private shots taken at his home in France and on the streets of Paris, his well-trained physique from rigorous training, unreleased action shots from his European and national team career, and extremely rare photos from his birth. It also reveals his private life, including his encounters with soccer, his professional debut, overseas challenges, thoughts on the World Cup, fashion, music, hairstyles, perfume, accessories, and best friends.
Ranking trends and sales
The book debuted at third place in the sports-related book ranking in June last year and stayed in the top five for two consecutive weeks. It then rose to fourth place on June 29 this year and third place on July 13 before finally reaching the top spot on July 20. The book sold 30,000 copies in the latest week.
Japan's latest results
Japan national team has recorded two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches (LDWDW). Their most recent match was a 1-2 loss to Brazil on June 29. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, expectations are high for the performances of Nakamura and other players.
