MLB icon Shohei Ohtani has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. Discover how this milestone cements his status as a global sports and cultural icon.

Congratulations are in order for MLB megastar Shohei Ohtani, who has officially been named one of the TIME 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2025. This prestigious recognition by TIME magazine not only highlights Ohtani’s incredible impact on the baseball diamond, but also his growing cultural and global influence far beyond the sport.

Ohtani, a two-way phenom known for both his dominant pitching and explosive batting, becomes one of the few athletes — and the only baseball player this year — to make the TIME 100 list. For many fans and analysts, this honor is more than well-deserved. It’s a powerful testament to his historic achievements, cross-cultural resonance, and inspirational presence on the world stage.

A Historic Milestone in a Legendary Career

At just 30 years old, Shohei Ohtani has already redefined what’s possible in professional baseball. Since his debut with the Los Angeles Angels and now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani has captivated fans worldwide with his unique ability to dominate as both a pitcher and a hitter — something the sport hasn’t seen since the days of Babe Ruth.

Over the past few seasons, he’s won multiple MVP awards, broken records, and changed the way teams think about talent development. His impact on the game has transcended stats and highlight reels.

Now, with the TIME 100 recognition, Ohtani adds yet another accolade to an already legendary career — but this time, it’s off the field, where his influence is just as strong.

TIME 100: Why Ohtani Was Chosen

TIME’s editors and contributors choose individuals across the globe who are shaping the future — in politics, technology, entertainment, science, and yes, even sports. But it’s not just about skill or popularity. According to TIME, the list reflects people who have inspired change, broken boundaries, and challenged the status quo.

In Ohtani’s case, it’s all of the above.

“Shohei Ohtani isn’t just the face of baseball — he’s the future of it,” writes TIME contributor and fellow MLB star Aaron Judge. “He’s shown us all what it means to dream big and do the impossible.”

Ohtani has become a global ambassador for baseball, helping grow the sport’s popularity across Asia, North America, and even Europe. His presence has opened doors for international athletes, challenged outdated stereotypes, and built cultural bridges between Japan and the United States.

A Cultural and Commercial Icon

Beyond his athletic brilliance, Ohtani has become a global brand. He’s the face of multinational campaigns for Nike, New Balance, Topps, Fanatics, and more. Every game he plays is broadcast internationally, drawing millions of viewers from Japan and across the world.

In 2024, his record-breaking $700 million contract with the Dodgers shocked the sports world — not just for the money, but for what it signified: Ohtani is the most valuable athlete in baseball history.

But even with all the fame and fortune, Ohtani remains humble, soft-spoken, and laser-focused on the game. That authenticity is part of what makes him such a powerful role model to young athletes everywhere.

The Bigger Picture: Baseball’s Global Renaissance

For Major League Baseball, Shohei Ohtani’s rise has been nothing short of transformative. His presence has helped spark a renaissance in global baseball fandom, drawing new fans and reviving interest in a sport that had seen declining youth participation and TV ratings in some regions.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred recently said:

“Ohtani is the greatest marketing tool baseball has had in a generation. He transcends nationality, language, and even sports.”

With his selection to the TIME 100, it’s clear that Ohtani’s influence extends far beyond the baseball diamond. He’s become a symbol of possibility — proof that greatness can be global, and that boundaries, whether cultural or athletic, are made to be broken.

What’s Next for Ohtani?

Despite an elbow injury that limited his pitching duties in early 2025, Ohtani continues to dominate as a designated hitter for the Dodgers. He’s already on pace for another MVP-caliber season and is expected to return to the mound next year.

But more importantly, he’s leading a movement — inspiring millions to chase greatness, challenge expectations, and dream without limits.

As TIME 100 affirms, Shohei Ohtani isn’t just one of the best athletes in the world — he’s one of its most influential people.