Why did she wear heels and step on the grass? Controversy over Japanese pitcher Kikuchi's wife's attire: "Lack of respect" vs. "Just local culture"

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

A fierce online debate has erupted in Japan over a baseball stadium photo posted by Rumi Kikuchi, the wife of Yusei Kikuchi (35), a former Japanese national team pitcher currently playing for the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball (MLB) and a former freelance announcer.

On the 10th, Ms. Kikuchi posted on her social media, "This year too, my son was in charge of announcing 'Play ball!' to signal the start of the game at 'Japanese Heritage Night,'" adding, "My heart swells seeing him grow little by little," along with a photo. In the picture, Ms. Kikuchi wore a white dress that highlighted her figure and posed with her son at the baseball stadium.

Her personal social media account received supportive comments such as "Still beautiful" and "Great mom." However, when the story was reported by Japanese media Sports Hochi, critical public opinion erupted, centered on the comment sections of portal sites.

In particular, there were many voices pointing out the TPO (time, place, occasion) regarding footwear and attire within the grounds. One netizen commented, "It is common sense to wear sneakers rather than high heels when entering a baseball field," criticizing that "I do not feel any respect for the player or her husband. Even after advancing to Major League Baseball, basic etiquette should be observed." Other netizens also pointed out, "I like it when players' wives dress in comfortable clothes like jeans and T-shirts" and "It does not look good when a player's wife stands out too prominently." In this process, there were also many reactions comparing her to the quiet support of Dana Tanaka, the wife of Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani.

On the other hand, counterarguments suggested that local cultural differences should be considered. Some netizens warned against excessive criticism, stating, "In American and Canadian culture, confident and attractive charm is viewed positively," "It fits well with the local Major League atmosphere," and "It is impressive that she maintains such self-confidence to wear such clothes even after giving birth."

Kikuchi made a deep impression on domestic fans by starting against South Korea in the first round of the World Baseball Classic (WBC) held last March. However, he was hampered by a left shoulder sprain injury and had an unsatisfying year, appearing in only 14 games this season. His record was also not very good at 1 win, 7 losses, with an ERA of 4.92. Amidst this, the controversy has spread to his wife's social media post, drawing public attention.

The debate online continues as Japanese sentiments that value baseball stadium etiquette and quiet support clash with views that appreciate the local free-spirited atmosphere, surrounding a single photo of a Major Leaguer's wife.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original