Baseball legend and 10-time all-star Ichiro Suzuki has just retired after 28 seasons in the major leagues, and he’s got someone special to thank. He’s grateful to his wife Yumiko, of course, but he also credits his 18-year-old dog Ikkyu for helping him play his best.
Ikkya is a shiba inu, a classic Japanese breed known for their smarts, foxy good looks, and somewhat standoffish demeanor.
Ikkyu still going strong at 18
Ichiro’s shiba inu Ikkyu is 18-years old and still alive. He’s such a good old boi. pic.twitter.com/AVSBwcAEG3
— Sung Min Kim (@sung_minkim) March 26, 2019
When watching Ichiro’s games on TV, Yumiko and Ikkyu would share a high five for every hit he made.
Ichiro tells Kyodo News, “I have to mention our dog Ikkyu. He’s a ‘Shiba’ spitz breed, 17 years and seven months. He’s a wobbly grandpa but I see him embracing life, and it makes me want to work hard too. I’m not joking. I didn’t expect him to be alive when I retire so this makes me emotional. I’m very grateful.”
Ikkyu as a puppy
Congratulations to Ichiro on a long career, and best wishes to the Suzuki family. We hope you enjoy a wonderful retirement together.
Congratulations, Suzuki family!
