Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has secured the prestigious title of AP Male Athlete of the Year for the third time, reflecting his unparalleled performance during the 2024 sports season. Ohtani garnered 48 out of 74 first-place votes, marking yet another milestone for the Japanese baseball sensation.
Ohtani's historic achievements this year were nothing short of remarkable. Not only did he win the unanimous National League MVP award, but he also made history by becoming the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in the same season. Under his leadership, the Dodgers triumphed, capturing the 2024 World Series title—a crowning achievement for any athlete. With the victory, Ohtani now stands shoulder to shoulder with basketball legend Michael Jordan, tying him for the second-most AP Male Athlete of the Year awards.
"It’s been surreal to think of all the hard work and the people who have supported me along this incredible promise to play the game," Ohtani remarked, thanking his team and fans for their unwavering support.
Notably, Ohtani's main competitor this year was French swimmer Leon Marchand, who finished second with ten votes. Marchand was impressive at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he captured four gold medals and one bronze, becoming the most decorated athlete of the event. His unique accomplishment of winning two individual gold medals within the same session marked him as the first swimmer to achieve such a feat since 1976. This rise to fame significantly increased his fanbase; his Instagram followers ballooned from 200,000 to over 1.5 million during the Olympic Games.
Despite Marchand’s brilliant performance, Ohtani's unique combination of skills—a pitcher and hitter—allowed him to shine even brighter on the baseball field. Marchand competed against prominent athletes, including 2024 Men’s Ballon d’Or winner Rodri and golf champion Scottie Scheffler, yet still fell short of the AP male accolade.
Shohei Ohtani's dominance wasn't limited to the field alone; he also captivated the public's attention and admiration through his sportsmanship and overall impact on the game. The AP Male Athlete of the Year award is decided by votes from sports journalists, reflecting Ohtani’s widespread recognition and respect across the sports community. Notably, the voting breakdown revealed significant support for Ohtani, comprising 48 votes for him compared to Marchand's 10 votes.
The female counterpart AP award was seized by basketball star Caitlin Clark, highlighting the exceptional talent present across various sports disciplines. Clark secured 35 votes, edging out Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles, who received 25 votes, and boxer Imane Khelif with four votes. The voting for the female athlete award was also reflective of the rising recognition women athletes are achieving on the global stage.
"I grew up a fan of Candace Parker and the people who came before me and to be honored in this way is super special, and I’m thankful," Clark expressed, showcasing her gratitude for the recognition amid fierce competition.
Interestingly, even during this Olympic year, swimming was unrepresented among the top three spots for the AP Female Athlete of the Year voting. This is significant considering swimming’s historical success at the Olympics, especially for American athletes. The last time swimming took the honors was back in 2022 when Katie Ledecky was awarded the title for her outstanding performances.
Ohtani's accolade not only exemplifies his individual brilliance but also marks a turning point for international athletes gaining recognition within American sports circles. Historically, American athletes dominate the AP's award lists; Ohtani and Marchand's placements signal shifting tides within the sports industry, where talent crosses borders.
Although the year highlighted the individual talent of athletes such as Ohtani and Clark, it also begs the question of how international competition continues to rise. Ohtani reflects the changing demographics and possibilities within baseball, paving paths for future international stars, and inspiring countless aspiring athletes worldwide.
With Ohtani's remarkable success, the world watches closely as he continues to redefine the game and challenge long-standing norms within professional sports. His legacy is not merely as one of the best players of our time but as one who has made his mark by achieving the extraordinary.
