After games, Shohei Ohtani is known for leaving the stadium incredibly quickly — often within just 10 to 15 minutes.

And once he leaves, he usually heads straight home.

According to those around him, much of his remaining time is devoted to sleep and recovery.

Whether every detail of that reputation is true or not, one thing is clear:

Ohtani does not live like the stereotypical professional athlete of past generations.

Unlike many former Japanese baseball stars who regularly went out late at night for dinners, drinks, or nightlife, Ohtani rarely goes out at all.

Even when visiting famous cities such as New York during the season, he surprised reporters by saying he barely knew the city because he had almost never gone outside.

The same attitude appeared during the feverish excitement surrounding the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

At the time, Japan was completely consumed by “Ohtani fever,” but Ohtani himself barely experienced it.

He did not participate in Japan’s training camp in Miyazaki, and Yu Darvish even sent him a message joking that the crowds were so overwhelming that “it’s probably good you didn’t come.”

When asked about the incredible excitement surrounding him in Japan, Ohtani calmly replied:

“I honestly probably have no idea. I hardly ever go out, whether I’m in America or Japan.”

For most people, traveling to famous cities or being surrounded by excitement naturally creates the desire to go sightseeing, visit restaurants, or enjoy the atmosphere.

But Ohtani almost never does those things.

Even during the offseason, he minimizes unnecessary outings and rarely eats out.

This lifestyle is not because he dislikes fun or excitement.

Rather, it is part of his philosophy of maintaining peak condition.

For Ohtani, protecting his body, conserving energy, and preparing for baseball always come first.

What may seem extreme to others is simply part of the disciplined routine that allows him to perform at the highest level in the world.

Source

This quote comes from a Japanese book published in Japan and is not currently available in English.

Number 1069, p.11