The sports world is reeling after Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani reportedly rejected a staggering $30 million offer from billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, with a response that has sparked widespread admiration and debate. Ohtani, the two-way baseball phenom known for his unparalleled skills as both a pitcher and hitter, allegedly turned down the offer with a blunt statement: “Keep it and use it for something that actually helps people!” The claim, which surfaced on social media and various online platforms, has ignited a firestorm of speculation, though its authenticity remains unverified by credible sources.
Ohtani, who signed a record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers in December 2023, is no stranger to making headlines. His deal, which includes $680 million in deferred payments, is the largest in sports history, reflecting his unique value as a global icon. With an estimated $100 million in endorsement earnings in 2025 alone, Ohtani’s financial security is unquestionable, making his alleged rejection of Musk’s offer all the more striking. The reported exchange took place at a high-profile charity event, though details such as the event’s date and location remain absent, raising questions about the story’s legitimacy.
Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is known for his bold moves, from offering massive sums to influence political campaigns to funding innovative ventures. The alleged $30 million offer was purportedly tied to an endorsement deal, with Musk praising Ohtani’s global appeal and his ability to bridge markets in the U.S. and Japan. A fabricated quote attributed to Musk on X, stating, “Shohei Ohtani has redefined baseball. I stand with you,” has been debunked, with no trace of such a post on Musk’s account. Fact-checking outlets like Snopes have pointed to similar false stories involving athletes like Patrick Mahomes and Caitlin Clark, suggesting this narrative may be AI-generated or exaggerated for viral attention.
Ohtani’s supposed response has resonated deeply with fans, particularly in Japan, where he is a national hero. His focus on using wealth for meaningful impact aligns with his low-key persona and his history of philanthropy through initiatives like the Shohei Ohtani Foundation, which supports youth sports and community development. The Dodgers star, who became the first MLB player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season in 2024, has consistently prioritized his craft over fame. His reported dismissal of Musk’s offer has been hailed as a stand for integrity, with fans on X praising his commitment to values over financial gain.
However, skepticism surrounds the story’s origins. Posts on platforms like Facebook have claimed similar rejections by other athletes, often using the same phrasing: “Keep it and spend it on something that actually helps people.” These posts, flagged by Meta for misinformation, lack corroboration from major news outlets. The absence of concrete evidence, coupled with the story’s resemblance to debunked claims about Jared Goff and Dawn Staley, suggests it may be a fabrication designed to capitalize on Ohtani’s and Musk’s high profiles. Still, the narrative has sparked a broader conversation about the role of wealth in sports and society.
Ohtani’s 2025 season has been nothing short of spectacular. After helping the Dodgers secure a World Series title in 2024, he continues to dominate, with a recent two-run homer in the Tokyo Series against the Cubs showcasing his global draw. His endorsement portfolio, including brands like New Balance and Fanatics, is expected to grow, potentially exceeding $150 million annually by 2026. This financial independence may explain why Ohtani could afford to turn down such an offer, if it indeed occurred. His contract’s deferral structure, which lowers the Dodgers’ luxury tax burden, also reflects his willingness to prioritize team success over immediate personal gain.
The alleged exchange has fueled debates about the intersection of sports, wealth, and social responsibility. Musk’s reported offer, whether real or fabricated, highlights his penchant for headline-grabbing gestures, while Ohtani’s response—authentic or not—underscores his reputation as a grounded superstar. As the Dodgers prepare for the 2025 season, with Ohtani leading the charge, fans are left wondering if this story will fade as a rumor or gain traction as a defining moment. For now, Ohtani remains focused on the field, letting his bat and arm do the talking, while the world speculates about his off-field principles.
