Former US President Donald Trump has reportedly lauded the skills of the Japanese baseball star, Ohtani Shohei. In a recent public address, Trump enthusiastically praised Ohtani's outstanding performance and reputation in Major League Baseball. The timing and motivations behind this endorsement have yet to be clarified.

In Japan, the success of athletes like Ohtani on the international stage is a huge source of national pride. Rare endorsements from international figures, especially a former president like Trump, are given considerable weight and attention. The discourse is also imbued with elements of national identity and pride on a global stage.

In the US, political figures often express their opinions about sports and athletes. However, it is not common for them to single out foreign athletes for praise. When it happens, it's usually seen as a gesture of goodwill towards that athlete's country.