After years of dominating the baseball world, Shohei Ohtani has become a household name, breaking records and winning MVP titles. From his impressive performance on the field to his record-breaking contracts, the Japanese superstar has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. However, despite his success and global stardom, one question continues to linger in the minds of fans: why does Ohtani choose to speak only in Japanese during interviews?
For nearly a decade, Ohtani has been playing in the United States, yet he has not made any significant efforts to learn English or communicate with the media in the language. This has led to speculation among fans, with some questioning whether Ohtani is lying about not speaking English. However, the truth behind Ohtani’s language preference is much more complex than what meets the eye.
First and foremost, it is essential to understand that language is a crucial aspect of one’s identity and culture. Ohtani, like many other Japanese players, takes immense pride in his heritage and language. It is a part of who he is, and it is only natural for him to want to hold on to it. Speaking Japanese allows Ohtani to stay connected to his roots and maintain a sense of familiarity in a foreign land.
Moreover, Ohtani’s decision to speak Japanese during interviews is also a reflection of his personality. He is a reserved and humble individual who prefers to let his performance on the field do the talking. Ohtani is not one to seek the spotlight or attention, and speaking a language that is not his native tongue may make him feel uncomfortable and vulnerable.
The media frenzy surrounding Ohtani’s every move is another factor that may have influenced his decision to stick to his native language. The constant media attention can be overwhelming, and speaking a language that he is not entirely comfortable with may add to the pressure and stress. By choosing to speak Japanese, Ohtani can maintain a level of comfort and familiarity, allowing him to focus on his game without any added distractions.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that Ohtani has not completely disregarded the idea of learning English. In fact, he has been taking English lessons and has made efforts to communicate with his teammates and coaches in the language. However, it takes time and effort to learn a new language, and it is unfair to expect Ohtani to become fluent in English overnight. He is still young and has his entire career ahead of him, and there will be plenty of opportunities for him to improve his language skills.
So, who is the translator that helps Ohtani during interviews? The answer is simple – he doesn’t have one. Ohtani prefers to do his interviews in Japanese, and the media outlets that cover him have interpreters who translate his words for the English-speaking audience. This eliminates any potential miscommunications or misunderstandings that may occur due to language barriers.
In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani’s decision to speak only in Japanese during interviews is not a sign of deception or a lack of effort on his part. It is a personal choice that allows him to stay connected to his roots, maintain a sense of comfort, and focus on his game without any added distractions. As fans, we should respect Ohtani’s decision and appreciate him for the exceptional athlete and person that he is. Let us continue to support and cheer on this talented superstar, regardless of the language he chooses to speak.