Shohei Ohtani Wins AP Male Athlete of the Year, Matching Michael Jordan's Record

Shohei Ohtani continues to make history. The Japanese superstar capped off 2024 by winning The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year for the third time, placing him alongside basketball legend Michael Jordan. The only athletes with more AP Male Athlete of the Year awards are Lance Armstrong, Tiger Woods, and LeBron James, each with four.

In an exclusive interview with the AP, Ohtani expressed his gratitude: "I'm very honored. Obviously, all the hard work has paid off. Maybe next year, I'll get the award again," he said through his interpreter, Matt Hidaka.

Ohtani received 48 votes in a poll conducted by 74 sports journalists from the AP and its members. He previously earned this prestigious honor in 2021 and 2023 while with the Angels.

Recalling his inspirations, Ohtani shared, "Growing up in Japan, I did follow Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. I would see their accolades and how they were successful in the United States."

The AP Male Athlete of the Year award has been awarded since 1931, with golfer Babe Didrikson*holding the record for the most wins by any athlete, male or female, with six titles.