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Exclusive Event Recap: Ichiro Suzuki at 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku

On June 28, 2025, an exclusive talk event titled "What I Think When Making Decisions" featuring the legendary Japanese baseball player Ichiro Suzuki was held at the luxurious 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku. This event was specially designed for members of CLUB MIZUNO, providing them a unique opportunity to interact with one of baseball's all-time greats just a month before his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

The venue, situated in the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, was filled with excitement as 120 lucky CLUB MIZUNO members were selected through a lottery to attend this prestigious gathering. The program featured a special video presentation showcasing Ichiro's journey and relationship with Mizuno's bats and gloves, followed by an engaging talk session led by renowned TV presenter Miki Sumiyoshi.

Why 109 Cinemas?

Masahiko Makino from Mizuno's Diamond Sports Division explained why 109 Cinemas was the chosen venue, emphasizing its state-of-the-art audio/visual facilities and the luxurious atmosphere that perfectly complemented the significance of Ichiro's achievement as the first Asian player in history to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Ichiro's Iconic Introduction

The event began with a delightful 45-minute video that documented Ichiro's illustrious career, after which he made his entrance to the stage. Greeting the audience with a bright smile, he instantly connected with his fans, remarking upon their enthusiasm for his memorabilia, saying, "It seems like there are some real enthusiasts here!"

Major Life Decisions

When asked about the biggest decisions he has made in his life, Ichiro pointed to two pivotal moments: his bold move to pursue a career in America and his decision to retire in 2019. He recalled the challenges he faced when leaving Japan, stating, “At that time, there were only headwinds. If I was easily swayed by those challenges, my desire wasn’t strong enough. It’s a decision I consider to be the most significant one I ever made." He reflected on retirement, explaining how the events surrounding Covid-19 shaped his thoughts and decisions at that time. "That decision allowed me to share my story with all of you today,” he added.

Turning Points in Decision-Making

When asked about the critical turning points in his career, Ichiro recounted a pivotal moment when he managed to persuade his manager Miyoshi Ogi to support his move to Major League Baseball while they enjoyed drinks together in Kobe in 2000. "I had to get his approval, and when he said ‘go for it,’ that was a clear moment for me,” he laughed. Ichiro expressed that he had been preparing for that moment since 1996, showcasing his foresight.

The Balance of Emotion and Logic

During the discussion, he emphasized how he consistently aims to control his emotions with rational thinking. "If decisions are made based on transient feelings, that often leads to regret,” he explained. He shared insight about his approach to making balanced decisions through the lens of experience, not just instinct.

Emphasis on Personal Responsibility

Ichiro elaborated on the importance of self-reliance when making decisions. "Regret leaves a bad feeling, so it's essential to make your own decisions at the end of the day," he noted. He also spoke about the challenges he faces when making everyday decisions as he ages, particularly regarding what to let go of as he considers his future beyond 50.

Reflections on Learning from Mistakes

Recalling a decision from his youth that he found regretful, he shared an anecdote about being pressured to donate a portion of his MVP prize back then, which he initially resisted. "Ultimately, I did give, and to my surprise, it was praised later by the team owner. I learned the importance of standing firm in my beliefs while making decisions," he stated, leading to laughter from the audience.

Continuous Growth in Decision Dynamics

As he reflected on how decision-making has evolved with age, Ichiro admitted that he has grown bolder in pushing his physical limits, which he compares to an ongoing experiment with his own body. The spontaneity and enjoyment he now finds in this experience were previously absent during his active playing days.

Teaching Decision-Making to Youth

Ichiro also shared insights from his visits to high school baseball teams, expressing his belief that having rigorous demands and challenges encourages decisive capabilities among learners. He commented, "Teachers need to be more assertive to help students realize their potential fully. It’s the responsibility of older generations to guide youth as they navigate their futures.”

Closing Insights for the Future

As the event concluded, Ichiro imparted valuable advice on making decisions for attendees. He reminded them that while youthful enthusiasm is great, a careful and forward-thinking approach is crucial for ensuring that decisions lead to satisfaction down the line. "Being cautious yet optimistic in decisions will foster a positive reflection on them later in life," he concluded.

Event Summary

The event was a resounding success, provoking much appreciation from those in attendance who cherished the opportunity to connect with Ichiro Suzuki in such an intimate and prestigious setting. 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku offered the perfect venue for this memorable occasion, promising further events in collaboration with Mizuno in the future, catering to their esteemed members in style.

For more information about future events and offerings at 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku, please visit official website.