Shohei Ohtani's wife is Mamiko Tanaka, a former professional basketball player who competed in Japan's Women's Japan Basketball League (W League). She played four seasons as a forward and center for the Fujitsu Red Wave before retiring in 2023. Today, she focuses on supporting Ohtani's baseball career with the Los Angeles Dodgers and raising their family.
While global interest surged after Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani revealed her identity in March 2024, Tanaka built an impressive athletic career long before stepping into the international spotlight. Let's break down her background, basketball career, and life behind the scenes with one of baseball's most famous athletes.
Who Is Mamiko Tanaka?
Born on December 11, 1996, in Mitaka, Tokyo, Tanaka grew up immersed in sports. Athletics run in her immediate family; her older brother, Shinichi Tanaka, is a professional rugby player who has competed for teams like Black Rams Tokyo.
Tanaka attended Tokyo Seitoku University Junior and Senior High School before playing collegiate basketball at Waseda University, one of Japan's most prestigious private universities. During her college years, she represented Japan on the international stage, winning a silver medal at the 2017 Summer Universiade in Taipei and competing in youth FIBA championships.
Professional Basketball Career
After graduating from Waseda University, Tanaka turned professional in April 2019 when she signed with the Fujitsu Red Wave.
- Position and Playstyle: Initially playing center, she transitioned into a forward role. She was known for her strong work ethic, physical defense, offensive rebounding, and playmaking ability.
- W League Success: Over four seasons with the Red Wave, her playing time and statistical output steadily climbed. In the 2022-23 season, she averaged 24 minutes, 7.8 points, and 6.0 rebounds per game, earning selection to her second W League All-Star Game.
- Retirement: Tanaka chose to step away from professional basketball, announcing her retirement at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season.
Marriage and Public Reveal
The couple's relationship was initially kept private. In February 2024, Ohtani surprised fans by announcing on Instagram that he had married a normal Japanese woman whom he had known for a few years.
Speculation ended shortly after when Ohtani posted a photograph of himself alongside Tanaka prior to a Dodgers trip to Seoul, South Korea for the MLB season opener. Since then, Tanaka has become a familiar, supportive presence at games, frequently seen cheering alongside other Dodgers family members and famously celebrating team milestones with Ohtani and their dog, Decoy. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in April 2025, followed by a son in June 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mamiko Tanaka do now?
Since retiring from professional basketball in 2023, Tanaka has focused on her family life and supporting Ohtani's demanding MLB schedule. She makes occasional public appearances at major baseball events, including the MLB All-Star Game red carpet.
How tall is Mamiko Tanaka?
Tanaka stands at approximately 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm), a height that served her well during her career as a competitive basketball forward and center.
Did Mamiko Tanaka play for the Japanese national team?
Yes. She represented Japan multiple times at the youth and collegiate levels, including appearances in the FIBA Asia Under-16 and Under-18 championships, and winning a silver medal at the 2017 World University Games.
Where did Shohei Ohtani and Mamiko Tanaka meet?
While the couple has kept specific details of their romance private, Ohtani noted in interviews that they met in Japan roughly three to four years before tying the knot. You can read more about baseball milestones and player updates on MLB.com.
