Famous Japanese Sportspersons

Yuzuru Hanyu is a highly accomplished Japanese figure skater and ice show producer. Known for his exceptional skills and impact on the sport, he has achieved numerous milestones, including back-to-back Olympic titles, World championships, and Grand Prix victories. Transitioning to the professional level in 2022, he introduced innovative solo ice shows, attracting large audiences and revolutionizing the genre. Hanyu's philanthropic efforts, charity work, and numerous accolades, such as the People's Honor Award and the Medal of Honor, reflect his dedication to both his sport and humanitarian causes.

Shohei Ohtani is a Japanese professional baseball player known for his exceptional skills as a pitcher and designated hitter. He has played for teams in both Major League Baseball (MLB) and Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Ohtani made history with his dual role, excelling as a hitter and pitcher. He has received prestigious awards such as the American League Most Valuable Player Award and has achieved remarkable feats, including being the first player to have 10 wins and 40 home runs in a single MLB season.

Ichiro Suzuki is a Japanese former professional baseball outfielder with a career spanning 28 seasons. He played for the Orix BlueWave in Nippon Professional Baseball and the Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, and Miami Marlins in Major League Baseball. Suzuki was known for his exceptional contact hitting and defensive skills, winning numerous awards including All-Star selections, Gold Glove Awards, and MVP titles. He holds various records, such as the most hits in a single MLB season and 10 consecutive 200-hit seasons.

Asuka, formerly known as Kana, is a Japanese professional wrestler signed to WWE. She has achieved significant success in her career, including winning the NXT Women's Championship with the longest reign in history, being the inaugural winner of the Women's Royal Rumble match, and becoming a record-setting four-time WWE Women's Tag Team Champion. Asuka has also won the Raw Women's Championship, becoming the third Women's Triple Crown Champion and the second Women's Grand Slam Champion. In addition to wrestling, she has worked as a freelance graphic designer and video game journalist, and runs her own YouTube channel focused on gaming and lifestyle content.

Yu Darvish is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who has played for various teams in Major League Baseball (MLB), including the San Diego Padres, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Chicago Cubs. He also played for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball. Known for his pitching prowess, Darvish has received recognition for his performance, finishing high in awards like the AL Rookie of the Year and the AL Cy Young Award. He holds records for strikeouts and has represented Japan in international competitions.

Takumi Minamino is a skilled Japanese professional footballer known for his versatility as an attacking midfielder or winger. He began his club career at Cerezo Osaka before moving to Red Bull Salzburg, where he enjoyed success before joining Liverpool. Minamino's impressive performances earned him a Premier League title with Liverpool. He has also represented Japan at various international tournaments, including the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup, showcasing his talents on the global stage.

Kairi Sane is a highly accomplished Japanese professional wrestler and actress, known for her "Pirate Princess" persona. She has had successful tenures with World Wonder Ring Stardom and WWE, where she has held multiple championships and accolades. Sane won the inaugural Mae Young Classic tournament in 2017 and has been a key figure on both NXT and the main roster. She has also made significant contributions to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, becoming the inaugural IWGP Women's Champion. Her career has been marked by versatility, success, and a strong fan following.

Antonio Inoki was a Japanese professional wrestler, martial artist, and promoter known for his iconic career in professional wrestling and mixed martial arts. He achieved recognition as a twelve-time world champion and made history as the first IWGP Heavyweight Champion and the first Asian WWF Heavyweight Champion. Inoki founded New Japan Pro-Wrestling and later the Inoki Genome Federation, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. His impact extended to politics, where he served in the Japanese House of Councillors and played a pivotal role in diplomatic negotiations.

Mari Osaka is a Japanese-American fashion designer and former tennis player. Throughout her career, she achieved success by reaching four ITF finals. She is well-known for her collaboration with her younger sister Naomi Osaka on various fashion design and art projects. Mari's creative endeavors in the fashion industry have showcased her unique talent and vision, garnering attention and recognition for her work. Her contributions to the world of fashion and art have highlighted her creativity and skill in these fields.

Shinsuke Nakamura is a highly accomplished Japanese professional wrestler known for his successful career in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) before joining WWE. He has held multiple championships, including three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, two-time NXT Champion, WWE United States Champion, and WWE Intercontinental Champion. Nakamura is recognized for his unique wrestling style, characterized by a mix of martial arts and emotive performances. He has also been part of stables like Chaos and has won prestigious tournaments like the G1 Climax.

Hideki Matsui, known as "Godzilla," was a successful professional baseball player in both the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and Major League Baseball (MLB). He began his career with the Yomiuri Giants in Japan, where he achieved numerous accolades, including All-Star selections, Japan Series championships, and MVP titles. Matsui later transitioned to MLB, primarily playing for the New York Yankees and winning a World Series championship with them in 2009. Throughout his career, Matsui hit a total of 507 home runs and was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018.

Mao Asada is a highly accomplished former Japanese figure skater, renowned for her exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. She has an impressive record as the 2010 Olympic silver medalist, a three-time World champion, a three-time Four Continents champion, and a four-time Grand Prix Final champion. Asada is known for her groundbreaking performance, being the first female skater to land three triple Axel jumps in one competition. With numerous titles and records to her name, she is considered one of the greatest figure skaters of all time, inspiring younger athletes like Yuzuru Hanyu and Shoma Uno.

Hidetoshi Nakata is a Japanese former professional footballer known for his exceptional talent as a midfielder. He began his career in 1995 and achieved numerous accolades, including winning the AFC Player of the Year award in 1997 and 1998, securing the Scudetto with Roma in 2001, and representing Japan in multiple World Cup tournaments and established himself as a prominent figure in international football. Nakata's contributions to the sport were recognized with prestigious honors, and he was praised by Pelé in his FIFA 100 list.

Sky Brown is a British-Japanese professional skateboarder and surfer who competes for Great Britain. She is the youngest professional skateboarder globally and has achieved notable success in various competitions. Brown won the American TV program Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and represented Great Britain at the 2020 Summer Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the park event. Additionally, she emerged victorious in the park event at the 2023 World Skateboarding Championship, solidifying her position as a talented and accomplished athlete in the skateboarding and surfing world.

Takuma Asano is a skilled Japanese professional footballer known for his role as a forward for La Liga club Mallorca and the Japan national team. His career has seen him exhibit exceptional talent and dedication on the field, showcasing his abilities in various high-stakes matches. With a strong presence and strategic gameplay, Asano has become a key player for both his club and country, earning recognition for his contributions to the sport at a professional level.

Yuji Nishida is a talented Japanese left-handed volleyball player known for his exceptional skills and achievements in both club and national team competitions. He made a remarkable debut at a young age and quickly established himself as a key player for JTEKT Stings and the Japan men's national volleyball team. Nishida has set records and received accolades throughout his career, including leading his national team to significant victories and making a successful transition to playing in the Italian Volleyball League. His impressive performances have solidified his reputation as a top scorer and valuable asset to any team he represents.

Tenshin Nasukawa is a renowned Japanese professional boxer, former kickboxer, and mixed martial artist. Throughout his career, he has been recognized as a generational talent and one of the greatest kickboxers in modern history. He achieved significant victories over notable opponents, including former boxing world champion Amnat Ruenroeng and Muay Thai champion Wanchalong PK Saenchaigym. Nasukawa held multiple championships in different weight classes and was ranked as the best kickboxer under 58 kg and the best pound for pound kickboxer in the world by Combat Press at the peak of his career.

Masahiro Tanaka is a Japanese professional baseball player who played for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in Nippon Professional Baseball before joining the New York Yankees in Major League Baseball. He signed a significant contract with the Yankees and made his MLB debut in 2014. Tanaka was known for his impressive performance, earning selections to two MLB All-Star Games. He set a new NPB record with 26 consecutive wins and showcased his talent as a skilled pitcher throughout his professional career.

Hideo Nomo is a Japanese former baseball pitcher known for his successful career in both Nippon Professional Baseball and Major League Baseball. He made history by becoming the first Japanese major leaguer to permanently relocate to MLB in the United States. Nomo played for 13 seasons in MLB with eight different teams, winning accolades such as the NL Rookie of the Year Award and being named an MLB All-Star. He is remembered for his unique "tornado" pitching windup and delivery, as well as for throwing two memorable no-hitters during his career.

Rui Hachimura is a Japanese professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. He previously played college basketball for the Gonzaga Bulldogs and has represented the Japan national team. Known for his versatility, he plays both small forward and power forward positions. Selected ninth overall in the 2019 NBA draft by the Washington Wizards, Hachimura was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020. His career highlights include success at the youth level in Japan and significant achievements during his time at Gonzaga.

Yoshihiro Akiyama, also known as Choo Sung-hoon and Sexyama, is a renowned Japanese mixed martial artist and judoka. He achieved significant success in both disciplines, winning gold medals at prestigious events such as the 2001 Asian Championships and the 2002 Asian Games. Akiyama further solidified his reputation by claiming the K-1 HERO's Light Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament Championship. His professional career is characterized by remarkable achievements and a strong presence in the world of martial arts, earning him widespread recognition and respect.

Sadaharu Oh is a legendary figure in Japanese baseball, known for his exceptional career as a player and manager. He spent his entire playing career with the Yomiuri Giants, winning numerous championships and setting records, including the world career home run record. After retiring as a player, he went on to manage both the Giants and the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, achieving success in both roles. Oh's impact on the sport extends beyond Japan, as he also managed the Japanese national team to victory in the World Baseball Classic.

Daisuke Matsuzaka is a retired Japanese professional baseball pitcher known for his successful career spanning 23 seasons. He played 16 seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) for teams like the Saitama Seibu Lions, Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, and Chunichi Dragons. Matsuzaka also spent 7 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets. He earned nicknames like "the Monster of the Heisei Era" in Japan and "Dice-K" in the United States. Matsuzaka achieved notable accolades, including MVP titles in the World Baseball Classic and an Olympic bronze medal. He is renowned for being the first player to win both a World Series and a World Baseball Classic.

Morihei Ueshiba was a pioneering Japanese martial artist and the founder of the martial art of aikido. He studied various martial arts in his youth, served in the Japanese Army, and trained with Takeda Sōkaku in Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu. Ueshiba joined the Ōmoto-kyō movement, where he served as a martial arts instructor and opened his first dojo. He later established the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, becoming renowned in martial arts circles and teaching aikido extensively in Japan and abroad until his passing in 1969.

Munenori Kawasaki is a retired Japanese professional baseball player who primarily played as a shortstop and second baseman. He had a successful career, playing for teams in both Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and Major League Baseball (MLB), including the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, and Chicago Cubs. Kawasaki also represented the Japanese national team in international competitions such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classics. He concluded his professional baseball career in 2018.

Takuma Sato is a Japanese professional racing driver known for his aggressive racing style. He has competed in the IndyCar Series, winning the prestigious Indianapolis 500 twice in 2017 and 2020. Sato made history as the first Asian driver to win the Indy 500 and the first Japanese-born driver to win an IndyCar Series race. He also raced in Formula One from 2002 to 2008, achieving a podium finish at the 2004 United States Grand Prix and holding the best-ever result for a Japanese driver in the championship.

Shinji Kagawa is a highly accomplished Japanese professional footballer known for his exceptional skills as a midfielder. He has played for various clubs around the world, starting his career with Cerezo Osaka before making notable moves to Borussia Dortmund and Manchester United. Kagawa holds impressive records for appearances and goals in UEFA club competitions. He has also played for clubs in Turkey, Spain, Greece, and Belgium. Kagawa has represented Japan at the international level, earning numerous caps and accolades for his performances.

Giant Baba, a revered Japanese professional wrestler, promoter, and former baseball player, co-founded All Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972. He led the promotion as its top star, booker, promoter, head trainer, and president for nearly three decades. Known for his talent and charisma, Baba recruited top talent for All Japan and was instrumental in its success. He achieved numerous championships during his career, becoming a seven-time Champion Carnival winner and holding multiple heavyweight titles, solidifying his legacy as a legendary figure in Japanese wrestling history.

Sasaki Kojirō was a renowned Japanese swordsman who lived during the Azuchi–Momoyama and early Edo periods. He is best known for his legendary duel with Miyamoto Musashi in 1612, where he tragically met his end. Despite his defeat, Sasaki Kojirō is highly respected in Japanese history and culture as a skilled and honorable warrior. Miyamoto Musashi himself acknowledged Sasaki as his strongest opponent, solidifying Kojirō's reputation as a formidable and respected figure in the realm of swordsmanship.

Yoshihiro Tajiri, also known as Tajiri, is a Japanese professional wrestler and promoter who has competed under various personas such as Aquarius, Kikkoman, and Tigre Blanco. He gained international recognition through his work with promotions like ECW and WWE, winning numerous championships including the ECW World Television Championship and WWE Cruiserweight Championship. Tajiri has also trained several wrestlers and worked for Japanese promotions such as NJPW, Pro Wrestling Noah, and Wrestle-1. Currently under contract with Kyushu Pro-Wrestling, he continues to make a significant impact in the wrestling industry.

Keiichi Tsuchiya, also known as the Drift King, is a renowned Japanese professional race car driver celebrated for his innovative drifting techniques in non-drifting racing events. He has achieved success in professional racing, notably winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans class twice and finishing as the All Japan GT Championship runner-up in 2001. Tsuchiya's iconic Toyota AE86 Sprinter Trueno, nicknamed "Hachi-Roku," has gained widespread popularity in the sports car world. His expertise in touge driving is showcased in the documentary series 'The Touge,' capturing his thrilling drives with the AE86. Additionally, Tsuchiya's influence extends to his involvement in popular manga and anime series like Initial D, along with his contributions as a stunt coordinator and actor in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift.

Nozomi Okuhara is a highly accomplished Japanese badminton player renowned for her exceptional speed, agility, and endurance on the court. She has achieved the prestigious title of World's number 1 in the BWF rankings for women's singles and has showcased her talent by winning significant medals in top competitions. Notably, she secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics and a gold medal at the 2017 World Championships. Okuhara's professional career is defined by her outstanding performances and contributions to the sport of badminton.

Kōhei Uchimura is a retired Japanese artistic gymnast renowned for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He is a seven-time Olympic medalist, winning three golds and four silvers, and a 21-time World medalist across various disciplines. Widely considered the greatest gymnast of all time, Uchimura's dominance in major competitions, including consecutive Olympic individual all-around gold medals, solidified his legacy. Known for his difficult yet precise routines, he has been praised for his remarkable consistency and elegance in performance by the International Gymnast Magazine.

Michael Leitch is a skilled rugby union player known for his role as a number eight at Japan Rugby League One club Toshiba Brave Lupus. Originally from New Zealand, he now proudly represents Japan at the international level. Leitch's professional career is marked by his impressive performances on the field, showcasing his strength, skill, and leadership abilities. He has become a key player for both his club and the national team, contributing significantly to their success in various competitions.

Midori Ito is a retired Japanese figure skater known for her groundbreaking achievements in the sport. She was the 1989 World champion and the 1992 Olympic silver medalist. Ito made history as the first woman to successfully execute a triple-triple jump combination and a triple Axel in competition. At the 1988 Calgary Olympics, she became the first woman to land seven triple jumps in an Olympic free skating competition. Widely regarded as one of the greatest figure skaters of all time, Ito's legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes worldwide.

Mas Oyama was a Zainichi Korean karate master who founded Kyokushin Karate, a style known for its full-contact approach. He is credited with popularizing and spreading the art of karate globally. Oyama's dedication to rigorous training, discipline, and the development of both physical and mental strength earned him a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the world of martial arts. His legacy lives on through the continued practice and promotion of Kyokushin Karate.

Misaki Matsutomo is a prominent Japanese badminton player known for her expertise in doubles play. She achieved a significant milestone by winning the gold medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in women's doubles, partnering with Ayaka Takahashi. Despite her focus on doubles, Matsutomo also showcased her skills in singles, reaching the final of the girls' singles event at the 2010 BWF World Junior Championships in Mexico. Her versatile capabilities and achievements have solidified her reputation as a top-tier badminton athlete on the international stage.

Kamui Kobayashi is a highly accomplished Japanese racing driver with an extensive and diverse career in motorsport. He currently competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship for Toyota Gazoo Racing, Super Formula for Kids com Team KCMG, and part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for 23XI Racing. Kobayashi also serves as a team principal for Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe. Throughout his career, he has competed in various series including Formula One, Formula E, GP2 Series, and GP2 Asia Series. Kobayashi has achieved notable successes, including winning the FIA World Endurance Championship in the 2019–20 season and the 2021 24 Hours of Le Mans. He has made significant contributions to the world of motorsport, becoming the third FIA world champion from Japan and the third Asian-born driver to score a Formula One podium finish.

Makoto Hasebe is a retired Japanese professional footballer who excelled as a centre-back and defensive midfielder. Starting with Urawa Red Diamonds in 2002, he later moved to the German Bundesliga with VfL Wolfsburg and 1. FC Nürnberg, before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in 2014. Hasebe achieved success with Wolfsburg, winning a league title in 2008-09. His tenure at Frankfurt saw him play over 300 matches, winning a DFB-Pokal and UEFA Europa League title. Internationally, he earned 114 caps and captained Japan in multiple FIFA World Cups and AFC Asian Cups, including leading the team to victory in the 2011 Asian Cup final.

Taro Daniel is a prominent Japanese professional tennis player known for his impressive career achievements. With a career-high singles ranking of world No. 58, he has demonstrated his talent and skill on the court. He secured a significant ATP Tour singles title at the 2018 Istanbul Open and has also claimed eight ATP Challenger Tour singles titles, showcasing his consistency and determination. Currently ranked as the No. 2 Japanese player in men's singles, Taro Daniel is recognized as a formidable force in the world of tennis.

Mitsuharu Misawa was a legendary Japanese professional wrestler and promoter known for his work with All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) and for founding Pro Wrestling Noah. He was a key figure in the development of the ōdō style of puroresu, alongside Toshiaki Kawada, Kenta Kobashi, and Akira Taue. Misawa achieved great success as a multiple-time world champion and headlined numerous sold-out events, leaving a lasting impact on the wrestling world. Despite facing challenges and tragic circumstances, Misawa's legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time endures.

Kento Momota is a highly accomplished former Japanese badminton player known for his exceptional skills and numerous victories in major tournaments. He has secured prestigious titles such as two World Championships, two Asian Championships, and one All England title. His remarkable performance in the 2019 season earned him a Guinness World Records certificate for the most men's singles titles won in a season. Momota is widely regarded as one of the top players in the history of badminton, showcasing outstanding talent and dominance in the sport.

Terunofuji Haruo is a Mongolian-Japanese professional sumo wrestler who has had a remarkable career marked by both triumph and adversity. He quickly rose through the ranks to achieve championship victories in the top makuuchi division, earning the prestigious rank of ōzeki. Despite setbacks due to knee injuries and health issues, Terunofuji persevered and made a historic comeback from the jonidan division to win tournaments and secure promotions to yokozuna, becoming a dominant force in the sumo world with numerous titles and accolades.

Maya Yoshida is a Japanese professional footballer known for his role as a centre-back and captain for the Major League Soccer club LA Galaxy. He has an extensive international career, having made over 120 appearances for the Japan national team. Yoshida has participated in multiple FIFA World Cup and AFC Asian Cup tournaments, achieving success in the latter in 2011. He has also represented Japan in the Olympic football team across several games. Yoshida's experience and skill make him a valuable asset in both club and international competitions.

Kazuki Nakajima is a retired Japanese professional racing driver known for his successful career in motorsports. He competed in Formula One for the Williams-Toyota team from 2007 to 2009. He achieved victories in the Super Formula Championship in 2012 and 2014 while driving for TOM'S. Nakajima further solidified his racing legacy by winning the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2018, 2019, and 2020 with Toyota Gazoo Racing, as well as the 2018–19 World Endurance Championship alongside teammates Fernando Alonso and Sébastien Buemi.

Miki Ando is a retired Japanese figure skater known for her impressive accomplishments in the sport. She has earned titles such as the 2007 and 2011 World champion, 2011 Four Continents champion, and 2004 World Junior champion. Ando is also a three-time Japanese national champion. Notably, she was the first female skater to successfully complete a quadruple jump in competition, achieving this feat at the 2002–03 Junior Grand Prix Final in The Hague, Netherlands. Her professional career showcases her talent and dedication to figure skating.

Hana Kimura was a talented Japanese joshi puroresu professional wrestler known for her work in companies such as World Wonder Ring Stardom and Wrestle-1. She also made appearances for international organizations like Ring of Honor and Pro-Wrestling: EVE. With a wrestling career spanning from 2016 to 2020, Kimura showcased her skills and passion for the sport. Additionally, she gained recognition for her participation in the reality TV series Terrace House: Tokyo 2019–2020. Her untimely passing in 2020 left a void in the wrestling community.

Isao Inokuma was a highly accomplished Japanese judoka known for his success in the sport. He achieved significant milestones in his career, winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo and securing a world title in 1965. Inokuma's expertise and skill in judo earned him recognition on a global scale, solidifying his reputation as a top athlete in the sport. His achievements continue to inspire judo enthusiasts and athletes around the world.

Yushin Okami is a highly accomplished Japanese mixed martial artist with a career spanning various prestigious organizations. Since turning professional in 2002, he has showcased his skills in the UFC, PRIDE, Pancrase, M-1 Global, World Series of Fighting, DEEP, Professional Fighters League, and ONE Championship. Okami's impressive track record and consistent performances have solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and respected Japanese fighters in recent history, earning him a place among the top echelons of the sport.

Shoichi "Sho" Funaki is a Japanese professional wrestling manager, color commentator, and former wrestler known for his time in WWE. He held the Cruiserweight and Hardcore Championship titles during his wrestling career. Funaki currently serves as a Japanese-language play-by-play commentator for WWE, showcasing his expertise and passion for the sport. With a successful transition from in-ring competitor to behind-the-scenes roles, Funaki continues to contribute to the wrestling industry with his knowledge and experience.

Yuto Nagatomo is a Japanese professional footballer known for his versatile full-back play. He began his career with FC Tokyo before moving to Europe, playing for clubs like Inter Milan, Galatasaray, and Olympique Marseille. Nagatomo has won several trophies, including the J.League Cup, Coppa Italia, and multiple Turkish titles. He has also received individual accolades, such as being named AFC's Asian International Player of the Year. With a significant number of international caps, Nagatomo has represented Japan at various prestigious tournaments, showcasing his skill and experience on the global stage.

Gichin Funakoshi was a pioneering figure in the world of karate, known as the "father of modern karate." He introduced karate to the Japanese mainland in 1922, following the teachings of prominent Okinawan karate masters. Funakoshi taught karate at various Japanese universities and played a key role in establishing the Japan Karate Association. Apart from his martial arts expertise, he was also recognized for his talents as a poet and philosopher. His professional legacy includes the development of the Shotokan karate style.

Shizo Kanakuri was a renowned Japanese marathon runner known as the "father of marathon" in Japan. He achieved the Guinness World Record for the longest time taken to complete a marathon. His professional life was marked by dedication to long-distance running, with a focus on perseverance and endurance. Kanakuri's passion for the sport and his commitment to pushing his limits made him a respected figure in the world of marathon running, inspiring many with his remarkable achievements and unwavering determination.

Yuji Nagata is a highly accomplished Japanese professional wrestler, mixed martial artist, and amateur wrestler signed to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). Regarded as one of the greatest Japanese wrestlers, Nagata has held numerous prestigious titles in various promotions, including the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and other major heavyweight championships. He is known for his impressive title reigns, successful defenses, and unique achievements such as winning multiple major tournaments and being the only wrestler to hold all four major heavyweight titles in Japanese professional wrestling. Nagata's career highlights also include being inducted into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame.

Mima Ito is a highly accomplished Japanese table tennis player known for her exceptional skills and fierce competitiveness. She has made significant achievements in her career, including winning medals at the Olympics and beating top Chinese players with her aggressive playing style. Ito is recognized as a formidable opponent to Chinese dominance in women's table tennis, with the highest winning rate against Chinese players in history. Her impressive victories and unique playing techniques, such as lethal serves and powerful smashes, have solidified her reputation as a top player in the sport.

Tommy Kono was a highly accomplished American weightlifter of Japanese descent, known for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He secured two Olympic gold medals and set world records in multiple weight classes, showcasing his versatility and skill. Kono's professional career was characterized by his dominance in weightlifting across various categories, demonstrating his strength and expertise on the international stage. His legacy as a legendary weightlifter continues to inspire athletes and fans worldwide.

Tomohiro Ishii is a Japanese professional wrestler known for his tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and appearances in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Initially portrayed as an undercarder, Ishii gained a loyal fan base and critical acclaim for his in-ring abilities. He rose to prominence in NJPW in 2013, winning multiple championships including the NEVER Openweight Championship and IWGP Tag Team Championship. Ishii also found success in other promotions like Ring of Honor (ROH) and Revolution Pro Wrestling (RPW), showcasing his versatility and skill in the wrestling world.

Hakuhō Shō, a former professional sumo wrestler from Mongolia, made his debut in March 2001 and reached the top makuuchi division in May 2004. He became the second Mongolian and fourth non-Japanese overall to achieve the rank of yokozuna at the age of 22. Known for his incredible achievements, Hakuhō set records for most wins in a calendar year, most undefeated tournament championships, and most top division championship wins in sumo history. He retired in September 2021 after a 20-year career, leaving behind a legendary legacy in the sport.

Satoru Sayama is a versatile figure in the world of professional wrestling and mixed martial arts. Best known as the original Tiger Mask, he has competed under various names and achieved significant accolades, including holding both the WWF Junior Heavyweight Championship and the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship simultaneously. Sayama is also a pioneer in MMA, founding Shooto in 1985 and developing a comprehensive training syllabus that influenced the development of well-rounded fighters in the sport. Additionally, he founded the martial art Seikendo and the wrestling promotion Real Japan Pro Wrestling.

Yasuaki Kurata is a highly accomplished Japanese martial artist and actor renowned for his contributions to Hong Kong action cinema. With impressive dan ranks in karate, judo, and aikido, he has showcased exceptional skills and versatility on screen. Kurata's professional journey is marked by numerous iconic performances in action films, where his mastery of martial arts has captivated audiences worldwide. His dedication to the craft and ability to seamlessly blend physical prowess with acting prowess have solidified his status as a prominent figure in the martial arts and entertainment industry.

Yuta Watanabe is a highly skilled Japanese badminton player renowned for his quick and explosive movements on the court. He is a member of the Nihon Unisys team and a valuable representative of the national team. Watanabe's exceptional talent is highlighted by his signature drop shots, which have earned him accolades such as the mixed doubles bronze medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics. Additionally, he boasts an impressive record as a four-time BWF World Championships medalist, showcasing his consistency and expertise in the sport.

Kasumi Ishikawa is a retired Japanese table tennis player known for her exceptional skills and achievements on the international stage. Throughout her career, she was a key member of the Japanese national team, earning medals at multiple Olympic Games. With a unique playing style as a left-handed inverted rubber shakehand player, she was renowned for her fast-paced top-spins and loops in offensive play. Ishikawa's professional journey is marked by her consistent performances and contributions to the success of the Japanese table tennis team.

Satoshi Ishii is a highly accomplished Japanese-Croatian judoka, mixed martial artist, kickboxer, and submission grappler. He has had a successful career, winning gold in Olympic Judo at the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics and achieving various medals and championships in judo competitions. Since making his professional MMA debut in 2009, Ishii has amassed an impressive record and competed in organizations such as Rizin Fighting Federation, Bellator, and the Professional Fighters League. Currently holding titles in HEAT and SBC, Ishii continues to make a mark in the world of combat sports.

Hirooki Goto is a highly accomplished Japanese professional wrestler known for his tenure with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Throughout his career, he has achieved numerous accolades, including being the longest-reigning NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champion with his Chaos stablemates, multiple IWGP Championships, G1 Climax winner, World Tag League winner, and New Japan Cup winner. Goto's skill, determination, and versatility in various wrestling categories have solidified his status as a prominent figure in the wrestling world.

Katsuyori Shibata is a Japanese professional wrestler, mixed martial artist, and trainer currently signed to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and makes appearances for Ring of Honor (ROH). Known for his hard-hitting offense, he has held titles in NJPW such as NEVER Openweight Champion, IWGP Tag Team Champion, and winner of the 2017 New Japan Cup. He has also held Revolution Pro Wrestling's RPW British Heavyweight Championship and served as the head coach of NJPW's Los Angeles dojo.

Jushin Thunder Liger, a Japanese retired professional wrestler and mixed martial artist, spent over three decades in the ring, wrestling in more than 4,000 matches for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and other promotions worldwide. He achieved immense success as a junior heavyweight, holding the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship 11 times and winning the Super J Cup twice. Liger's accomplishments include being a multiple-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, a three-time Best of the Super Juniors tournament winner, and an inductee into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame. His legendary career culminated in a retirement match at Wrestle Kingdom 14 in 2020.

Kenta Maeda is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who has played for teams in both Major League Baseball (MLB) and Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He began his career with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp in 2008, winning the Eiji Sawamura Award twice during his time there. In 2016, he moved to MLB, signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers before being traded to the Minnesota Twins in 2020. Maeda later signed with the Detroit Tigers in 2024, continuing his successful career as a pitcher.

Atsuto Uchida is a Japanese former professional footballer known for his role as a right-back. He began his career with Kashima Antlers, where he achieved success with three J1 League Titles before moving to Germany's Schalke 04. During his time with Schalke, Uchida won the 2010–11 DFB-Pokal and was selected for the Bundesliga team of the season multiple times. After a stint with Union Berlin in the 2. Bundesliga, he returned to Kashima Antlers and ultimately retired in 2020. Uchida also represented Japan in various international competitions, earning 74 caps and scoring two goals.

Shohei Ono is a highly accomplished Japanese retired judoka known for his exceptional skills and numerous achievements in the sport. Regarded as one of judo's top fighters, he has secured two Olympic gold medals, three World Championships, and five Grand Slams. Ono is recognized for his dominance in the lightweight division, consistently emerging victorious in major championships since 2015. Specializing in osoto gari and uchimata, he is praised for his classical technique and high ippon rates, making him a standout figure in the judo world.

Takashi Inui is a Japanese professional footballer known for his versatility in playing as a winger or an attacking midfielder for Shimizu S-Pulse in the J2 League. With exceptional skills and speed, Inui has been a key player in his team, contributing to both goals and assists. He has showcased his talent in various competitions, earning recognition for his technical ability and tactical awareness on the field. Inui's dedication and commitment make him a valuable asset to Shimizu S-Pulse and a respected player in Japanese football.

Hiroyoshi Tenzan is a renowned Japanese professional wrestler best known for his tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling. He has achieved significant success in his career, holding the IWGP Heavyweight Championship four times and the IWGP Tag Team Championship a record twelve times. Tenzan has also made history by winning both the World's Strongest Tag Determination League in All Japan Pro Wrestling and the G1 Tag League in NJPW alongside Satoshi Kojima. Additionally, he has held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, showcasing his versatility and skill in the wrestling world.

Zion Suzuki is a professional footballer who excels as a goalkeeper for Serie A club Parma. Despite being born in the United States, he proudly represents the Japan national team on the international stage. Suzuki's skills and dedication have earned him a reputation as a reliable and agile goalkeeper. His presence on the field brings a sense of confidence to his team, and his ability to make crucial saves has proven invaluable in key moments of matches.

Bull Nakano, a Japanese retired professional wrestler and professional golfer, began her wrestling career in All Japan Women's Pro-Wrestling as a teenager. Known as a villain, she held multiple singles and tag team championships in Japan before competing in Mexico's Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, where she became the first World Women's Champion. Nakano later joined the World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling, feuding over various women's championships. Transitioning to professional golf in 1998, she eventually joined the Ladies Professional Golf Association tour and was later inducted into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter and WWE Hall of Fame.

Norifumi "KID" Yamamoto was a Japanese mixed martial artist and kickboxer known for his aggressive, well-rounded fighting style. He gained popularity in Shooto for his skills and controversial persona before moving to K-1 Hero's where he won the 2005 Middleweight Grand Prix Tournament. While primarily a bantamweight, he competed in the lightweight division in Hero's. Yamamoto later joined the UFC in the bantamweight division but struggled, going winless in his first four fights.

Kei Nishikori is a highly accomplished Japanese professional tennis player, known for his impressive achievements in the sport. He has reached a career-high world ranking of No. 4 and has won numerous ATP Tour titles. Nishikori made history as the first man representing an Asian country to reach a major singles final. He also holds notable records for deciding-set wins and win percentage in matches extending to five sets. Additionally, he won a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics, marking a significant milestone for Japanese tennis.