Kosé Corporation has appointed Major League Baseball (MLB) player Shohei Ohtani as its latest brand ambassador.
The Los Angeles Angels hitter will feature across US campaigns for the Japanese beauty giant’s flagship brands Decorté and Sekkisei.
He will promote a range of skin care and sun lotion products.
Ohtani is a household name in Japan and is the greatest two-way player in MLB history – someone who can both pitch and hit for their respective teams throughout the season.
"While Ohtani is celebrated around the world for his incredible athleticism, it is his sincere attitude and sense of integrity that convinced us he would be the best match for our company,” said Kazutoshi Kobayashi, President and CEO of Kosé Corporation.
“Ohtani is more than a spokesperson as he is a true advocate; he believes in our mission and he uses our products.
“He embodies our values and our 3G’s strategic vision, which focuses on global, gender and generation.”
He added: “As we increase our global presence, we want to be a company that celebrates beauty across all regions and countries, across all genders and ages.
“Sports have always been an important part of our history, and our upcoming campaigns with Ohtani will promote healthy lifestyles along with healthy-looking skin."
More beauty companies are partnering with sports stars as the two worlds continue to collide.
NBA Houston Rockets basketball player Jalen Green became a partner in nail polish brand Un/Dn Laqr in February 2023.
Viral make-up brand Il Makiage announced a multi-year partnership with Arsenal Women last year to “celebrate the elite talent, passion and impact of women footballers”.
England Lioness Lotte Wubben-Moy, meanwhile, is the face of Venus’ campaign about normalising ‘real’ skin.
Beauty brand Avon has also worked with Liverpool Ladies Football Club on a sponsorship deal.