Ohtani's Wife Still Uses Discontinued iPhone 13 Mini Despite His Fortune

The outdated mobile phone carried by Mamiko Tanaka, 29, the wife of Shohei Ohtani, 30, a star player for the LA Dodgers, has sparked widespread discussion. Ohtani, often referred to as "the man worth 1 trillion won," recently participated in the LA Dodgers' Major League World Series back-to-back championship commemorative parade in Los Angeles, California, U.S., on the 3rd.
In publicly released photos, the couple was seen smiling and waving to fans from the open deck of a double-decker bus. Mamiko was captured taking photos of her husband enjoying the championship celebration on her mobile phone, which drew attention. Her phone was an 'iPhone 13 mini,' a model that was discontinued in September 2023. The iPhone 13 mini was released in 2021.
This scene quickly spread online, with netizens reacting with comments such as, "Real wealth doesn't flaunt status through possessions," "The fans' phones taking pictures of Mamiko are more advanced models," and "I feel ashamed for upgrading to the latest model."

Mamiko, Ohtani's wife, has repeatedly drawn attention for her frugal lifestyle. Last March, when she attended a Dodgers team dinner in Seoul, the bag she carried—a shoulder bag worth 5,000 yen (approximately 47,000 Korean won) from the Spanish SPA brand ZARA—caused a sell-out situation after the news spread. In December of the same year, she was also spotted wearing a ZARA sweater priced in the 70,000 won range while watching an NBA LA Lakers game with her husband.
As Mamiko's frugal actions gained attention, the simple lifestyle of Ohtani's family also came into the spotlight. The Japanese weekly magazine 'Women Seven' previously stated, "Ohtani's excellent character is thanks to his mother Kiyoko and family." It was reported that the Ohtani family has continued their previous daily life even after their son's success, with the mother also continuing part-time work.
Meanwhile, Ohtani is currently one of the most expensive players on the planet. In December of last year, he signed a 10-year, $700 million contract (approximately 1.123 trillion won) with the Dodgers, setting a new record for the highest single contract in global sports. According to the U.S. sports business media outlet 'Sportico,' Ohtani earned $70 million (approximately 101.2 billion won) last year solely from advertisements and sponsorships.
Key Points About Ohtani's Lifestyle and Financial Standing
- Contract Details: Shohei Ohtani's 10-year, $700 million contract with the LA Dodgers is the largest single contract in sports history.
- Earnings from Sponsorships: Ohtani earned $70 million in 2023 from advertisements and sponsorships alone, highlighting his significant financial influence.
- Family Background: Ohtani's family maintains a modest lifestyle, with his mother continuing to work part-time despite his success.
- Public Perception: Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko, are seen as symbols of humility and simplicity, contrasting with their high-profile status.
Mamiko's Frugal Habits and Public Reaction
- ZARA Bag Incident: In March, Mamiko's ZARA shoulder bag caused a surge in demand after it was spotted during a Dodgers event in Seoul.
- Clothing Choices: She was seen wearing a ZARA sweater during an NBA game, further emphasizing her preference for affordable fashion.
- Online Response: Fans and social media users praised her for not flaunting wealth, with many expressing admiration for her down-to-earth approach.
Ohtani's Impact on the Sports Industry
- Record-Breaking Contract: His $700 million deal with the Dodgers set a new benchmark for player salaries in professional sports.
- Global Recognition: Ohtani is considered one of the most valuable athletes in the world, with his name synonymous with excellence in baseball.
- Cultural Influence: As a Japanese athlete, Ohtani has become a cultural icon, inspiring fans across the globe.
The Broader Implications of Their Lifestyle
- Contrast with Wealth: Despite their immense wealth, both Ohtani and Mamiko choose to live modestly, challenging traditional notions of success.
- Family Values: Their commitment to maintaining a simple lifestyle reflects the values instilled by Ohtani's family, particularly his mother.
- Public Image: Their public appearances often highlight their humility, reinforcing their image as relatable and grounded individuals.
Overall, the Ohtani family's lifestyle and choices have sparked conversations about wealth, success, and personal values. Their story serves as a reminder that true wealth is not always measured in material possessions but in the way one chooses to live and interact with the world.
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