Shohei Ohtani’s Surprising Revelation: Superstar Opens Up About Anxiety Struggles, Inspiring Fans Worldwide

On March 22, 2025, Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way phenom and global baseball icon, made headlines with a deeply personal revelation: he has been struggling with anxiety. In a candid interview with ESPN, the 2024 World Series champion and National League MVP shared his mental health challenges, a surprising admission from a player often seen as invincible. Far from dampening his fans’ spirits, Ohtani’s vulnerability has sparked an outpouring of support and excitement, as admirers celebrate his courage and humanity. This moment not only humanizes one of the greatest athletes in sports history but also shines a spotlight on the importance of mental health awareness in professional sports.

The Unstoppable Shohei Ohtani: A Superstar Under Pressure

Shohei Ohtani’s rise to superstardom has been nothing short of meteoric. Born in Iwate, Japan, in 1994, Ohtani first gained international attention as a two-way star with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball League. His ability to dominate as both a pitcher and a hitter drew comparisons to Babe Ruth, and when he joined the Los Angeles Angels in 2018, he quickly became a sensation in Major League Baseball (MLB). Ohtani won the American League Rookie of the Year in 2018, followed by AL MVP awards in 2021 and 2023. His move to the Dodgers in 2023, where he signed a record-breaking $700 million contract, further elevated his profile.

In 2024, Ohtani achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. He capped the year by leading the Dodgers to a World Series title, earning World Series MVP honors with a .400 batting average and two home runs in the series. Off the field, Ohtani’s marketability soared, with Sportico reporting that he’s expected to earn $100 million in endorsements in 2025 alone, a record for an MLB player. From New Balance to Porsche Japan, brands have flocked to partner with the soft-spoken superstar, whose global appeal spans Japan, the U.S., and beyond.

Yet, behind the accolades and the seemingly effortless success, Ohtani has been grappling with a silent struggle—anxiety. His revelation comes at a time when mental health in sports is gaining more attention, and his openness is being hailed as a groundbreaking moment for baseball.

Ohtani’s Revelation: “I’ve Been Struggling”

In his ESPN interview, Ohtani spoke candidly about the pressures that have weighed on him throughout his career. “I’ve been struggling with anxiety for a long time,” he admitted through his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. “It’s something I’ve dealt with since I was in Japan, but it became more intense after I came to the U.S. and especially after signing with the Dodgers.” Ohtani explained that the expectations to perform as both a pitcher and a hitter, combined with the scrutiny of being a global icon, have taken a toll on his mental well-being.

The 2024 season, while triumphant, was particularly challenging for Ohtani. “There were days when I felt overwhelmed,” he said. “I’d be in the locker room before a game, and my heart would be racing—not because of the game, but because of the pressure I put on myself to be perfect.” Ohtani also shared that the language barrier and cultural adjustments in the U.S. added to his anxiety, despite his efforts to adapt. “I wanted to fit in with my teammates, but sometimes I felt isolated because I couldn’t express myself the way I wanted to,” he added.

What makes Ohtani’s admission so surprising is the contrast between his public persona and his private struggles. On the field, he’s a picture of composure, delivering clutch hits and striking out batters with a calm intensity. Off the field, he’s known for his humility and quiet demeanor, often letting his performance speak for itself. Fans and analysts alike have long viewed Ohtani as a superhuman figure, capable of feats no one else in baseball history has achieved. To hear that he’s been battling anxiety behind the scenes has left many in awe of his resilience.

Fans React: Excitement and Support Pour In

Rather than diminishing Ohtani’s legacy, his revelation has sparked an overwhelmingly positive response from fans. On social media platforms like X, hashtags like #OhtaniStrong and #MentalHealthMatters began trending within hours of the interview. “Shohei Ohtani admitting he struggles with anxiety makes me love him even more,” one fan wrote. “He’s showing that even the best in the world face challenges, and that’s so inspiring.” Another fan added, “I’m excited to see him keep breaking records while also breaking the stigma around mental health. He’s a true role model.”

In Japan, where Ohtani is a national hero, the reaction was equally heartfelt. Japanese media outlets praised his courage, with one headline reading, “Ohtani’s Honesty Inspires a Nation.” Fans in Tokyo gathered at sports bars to watch the interview, many expressing pride in Ohtani’s willingness to speak out. “He’s not just a baseball player—he’s a symbol of hope,” said a fan interviewed by NHK. “Knowing he struggles with anxiety makes me feel like I can overcome my own challenges.”

The Broader Impact: Mental Health in Sports

Ohtani’s openness about his anxiety comes at a pivotal moment for mental health awareness in professional sports. In recent years, athletes like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Kevin Love have spoken publicly about their mental health struggles, helping to destigmatize these issues. In MLB, players like Zack Greinke and Joey Votto have also shared their experiences with anxiety, but Ohtani’s global platform gives his revelation an even greater impact.

Mental health challenges are particularly acute for athletes like Ohtani, who face immense pressure to perform at an elite level while navigating the spotlight. A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that 35% of professional athletes report symptoms of anxiety or depression, often exacerbated by the demands of their careers. For Ohtani, the added layer of being a cultural ambassador—representing Japan in the U.S. while carrying the expectations of millions—has made his journey even more complex.

The Dodgers organization has already taken steps to support Ohtani. Manager Dave Roberts revealed that the team has provided Ohtani with access to mental health resources, including a sports psychologist who has worked with him since 2024. “Shohei is a phenomenal athlete, but he’s also human,” Roberts said. “We’re committed to supporting him in every way we can, on and off the field.”

Ohtani’s Path Forward: A Beacon of Hope

Ohtani’s revelation has not only inspired fans but also shed light on his own coping mechanisms. He shared that he’s been working with a therapist to manage his anxiety, using techniques like mindfulness and journaling to stay grounded. “I write down my thoughts before games—it helps me clear my mind,” he said. Ohtani also credited his teammates, particularly Dodgers stars Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, for creating a supportive environment. “They’ve been like brothers to me,” he said. “They remind me that I don’t have to be perfect.”

As Ohtani prepares for the 2025 season, fans are more excited than ever to see him continue his historic career. With nine years left on his Dodgers contract, Ohtani has the opportunity to add to his already legendary resume, which includes three MVP awards, a World Series title, and the 50-50 season. But beyond the stats, Ohtani’s legacy will now include his role as a mental health advocate. By sharing his struggles, he’s shown that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness—a message that resonates far beyond the baseball diamond.

Shohei Ohtani’s admission of struggling with anxiety has left fans inspired and excited for what’s to come. His courage in speaking out has not only humanized a global superstar but also sparked important conversations about mental health in sports. As Ohtani continues to break records and win hearts, his impact will be felt for generations, both on and off the field.