Why is Ichiro's first name on the back of his jersey?

Question

Not the last.

Answer 1

Yes, people would say that it's a Japanese thing. It is, I know since I was born in Japan.

But then I'd have to question, why isn't Hideki Matsui's first name on the back of his jersey? I look online and his last name is on there first.

Tadahito Iguchi, same thing, his last name is on the back instead of his first.

Kaza Ishii, yet again, the same thing.

It seems like Ichiro is the only Japanese Player with his first name on the back, why? Idk, maybe it's just the way he wanted it.

Answer 2

It is not a Japanese name thing or even English name thing. I spent 8 years in Japan and they all use there last name on there jerseys.

Here is what Ichiro said (through a translater) 4 years ago during in interview with ESPN when asked why Ichiro is on his jersey he replied "Suzuki is the second most common surname in Japan, and his manager For the Japanese Pacific Leagues Orix Blue Wave) introduced the idea as a publicity stunt to help create a new image for what had been a relatively weak team, as well as a way to distinguish their rising star.
Initially, he disliked the practice and was embarrassed by it, but "Ichiro" was a household name by the end of the season and he was flooded with endorsement offers.

He started using Ichiro in 1994.

Hope this answers your question. And by the way going to a Japanese baseball game is one of the greatest experiences of my life. There fans or sooooo different then the USA's plus you can never beat the beer girls (Young Japanese women the serve you beer through a half keg strapped to their back)

That is all!

Answer 3

Because MLB was as accommodating as possible when he first signed in 2001. Wanted "Ichiro" on his jersey? Fine. It's unusual, but really, there was so much vested in his succeeding in Seattle (which he did and continues to do) that it was a very small gesture to make to help keep him happy.

Answer 4

Because, in Japan the first name that you say (e.g. Ichiro) is their surname. The second name that you say is his first name so Ichiro Suzuki's first name (in English) is Suzuki and his surname is Ichiro

Answer 5

In the USA, the first name comes before the last name.

In many Asian countries, the last name comes before the first name.

Therefore Ichiro is the last name, not the first name. Suzuki is his first name.

Answer 6

I don't know

Lets go Mets!!!! 2007 Champions

Answer 7

Its to show he has risen to the same social status as other great entertainers.............Like Cher. ;)

Answer 8

its easier to say