Athletic talent that surpasses all is rare to witness. Shohei Ohtani has exceeded the possibilities of being a baseball player in the 21st century. Playing on both sides of the ball is possible if one possesses enough talent. But of course, to put one’s body through that hard work will eventually take its toll. And yet, the Japanese wonder continues to amaze audiences, much like Coco Gauff in the WTA. But where does this drive to win come from?

Japan’s “yakyū shōnen, “a kid who lives and breathes baseball, used to be a talented swimmer. An all-around active child, both his parents were athletes who passed down their strong genes to the Los Angeles Angels player. The same went for Gauff, whose parents played different sports but led her towards tennis. How did these sports stars fare in a world where parental influence can ruin careers?

Toru Ohtani Wanted Shohei Ohtani To Never Limit Himself

Self-help gurus are quite fond of the quote – don’t be a wall in your own way. And indeed, sometimes, life can give one all the opportunities they might need to pursue greatness. But just because something has never been done before, or one tries to think they couldn’t possibly do it, they limit themselves to what they know. Toru Ohtani never wanted it for his son.

Right from a young age, Ohtani-san encouraged his youngest child to be as active as he wished. From swimming to badminton, a young Shohei tried out everything. But it was when he was introduced to baseball that he fell in love. He wanted to pitch, he wanted to bat, and no one could stop him. It took hard work, keep in mind, from not just Shohei but Toru as well, who used to coach his school team.

But Sho-time’s reputation in the sport is proof that the Ohtanis’ hard work never went in vain. It may take five years, ten years, or twenty years, but if there’s talent, honing it in whatever way possible will always be of use in the end. Shohei Ohtani is living proof, and his dad is the flint behind his flame.

Coco Gauff’s Parents’ Influence Was Immense

For Ohtani’s New Balance partner, the story goes much the same. A father who played basketball, a mother who was an elite heptathlete, and Coco who is a star at just 19 years old. Tennis is a sport that has seen too many female players’ careers derail due to extreme family interference. But for the Gauffs, everyone is part of the team.

READ MORE – Everything to Know About Shohei Ohtani’s father, Coach Toru Ohtani

Family support is necessary for any individual but to be thrown in the spotlight as a young athlete requires even more of it. Gauff’s father coached her up the ranks and used to be present at every game, showing just how much of an influence he’s had on her career. But now, the parental unit has taken a step back to let the limelight shine where it’s deserved.

Now, they’re just ‘Mom’ and ‘Dad’ to her.