Hidetoshi Nakata was once a household name, not just in Japan, but around the world.
Known for his dazzling skills on the football pitch and his distinctive, flamboyant style, Nakata was the epitome of a sports icon.
But his story is more than just about football; it’s about passion, reinvention, and finding fulfillment outside the spotlight.
A Star on the Field
Nakata’s rise to fame began at the 1998 World Cup in France, where he captured the attention of fans with his talent and flair.
As Japan’s first-ever representative at the global tournament, his performances were a revelation.
His remarkable abilities didn’t go unnoticed, and soon, he was playing for the Italian club Perugia in Serie A.
Over the years, Nakata would go on to represent prestigious teams like Roma and Parma, where his presence brought attention not only to his team’s play but also to the Italian league itself.
The Unlikely Retirement
Despite his promising career and significant success, Nakata decided to retire from football at the age of just 29.
His departure came just before the 2006 World Cup, and while the world was shocked, Nakata had already made up his mind.
Reflecting on his decision, he shared with The Athletic: “I had lost the passion.
If I didn’t have the passion, it was like I was lying to myself.”
Although he had reached the pinnacle of success with Japan at three World Cups and had made a name for himself in Serie A, he knew it was time to step away from the sport.
A New Passion Beyond Football
Following his retirement, Nakata took a sabbatical of sorts, traveling the world in search of a new passion.
His time in Italy sparked an interest in wine, and upon returning to Japan, he developed a deep fascination with sake – Japan’s traditional rice wine.
His dedication led him to visit over 450 sake breweries, learning everything he could about the craft.
This journey culminated in 2015, when he founded the Japan Craft Sake Company, bringing a modern twist to the ancient drink.
Expanding His Interests and Finding Success
Nakata’s foray into the sake industry couldn’t have come at a better time.
Between 2009 and 2021, the market for sake saw a staggering 590% increase in value.
Nakata capitalized on this growth, and his company became a success.
He also launched an app called Sakenomy to educate the world about sake, paired with his own tea company.
For Nakata, success wasn’t just about following the money, it was about pursuing what he loved: “I do what I like,” he said. “If I like fashion, I do fashion. If I like sake, I do sake.”
A Fashion Icon and Multi-Millionaire
While his sake business thrived, Nakata never abandoned his roots in fashion.
In 2025, he continued to captivate the fashion world, starring in campaigns for Stone Island alongside celebrities like British grime artist Giggs and filmmaker Spike Lee.
Even years after his retirement, Nakata remained a style icon, influencing both the football and fashion industries.
Today, Nakata’s ventures have led him to a reported fortune of $28 million (£21.5m).
His journey from footballer to sake mogul, and now fashion icon, demonstrates that he is much more than just an athlete – he’s a man who has always followed his passions, wherever they may lead.
The Legacy of Hidetoshi Nakata
Nakata’s story is one of reinvention. From being the face of Japanese football to becoming a businessman with a diverse portfolio, he has shown that there’s life beyond football.
His decision to retire early, though shocking at the time, was perhaps one of the best he could have made.
Today, Nakata is remembered not just for his on-field brilliance, but for his success in business and fashion – a true testament to living life on his own terms.