Is Shohei Ohtani a Hurdle for Japan's World Cup Ambitions?

As Japan's national football team aims for World Cup victory, Korean media has made a bold claim. Japan's recent form is 3W-1D-1L, with a 3-0 win over Bolivia on November 18, 2025.

What is Japan's challenge?

As Japan's national team aims for World Cup victory, Korean media suggests Shohei Ohtani's presence is hindering Japan's soccer popularity.

What is Ohtani's influence?

Ohtani's emergence and success in the WBC have made baseball overwhelmingly popular. Therefore, it is more difficult for soccer to discover talent compared to baseball, the media argues.

What's next for Japan?

However, it is also a fact that Japan's success must come first to attract talent. The appearance of star players in the World Cup, international tournaments, or European leagues will inevitably impact soccer's popularity in Japan.