Hiroyuki Akimoto and Ai Otomo Announce Divorce

Hiroyuki Akimoto and Ai Otomo have announced their divorce, with the former judo world champion and current Japan national team coach sharing the news on social media as the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games are underway. Akimoto, 40, posted the announcement on Instagram Stories on October 1, noting that the personal disclosure fell right during a major international competition window. Otomo, a 44-year-old former member of the Japan women’s volleyball national team, had also previously shared news of the separation with the public.

Announcement During the Asian Games and World Championships Window

The timing of the announcement coincided with the opening days of judo competition at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which began on September 30. Acknowledging the awkward schedule, Akimoto addressed followers directly on his Instagram account.

“Even though it is during the Asian Games and before the World Championships, I have received various inquiries, so I would like to report it myself as well,” Akimoto wrote, according to his social media post. “For personal reasons, I have divorced.”

Akimoto expressed regret to supporters for the sudden news while striking an optimistic tone about his future focus. “To everyone who always supports and backs me, I am sorry for the sudden news and for causing a disturbance,” he wrote, adding a laughing-crying emoji alongside the phrase, “I am 40 years old, life has many things.” He emphasized a fresh start, stating that he intends to remain cheerful, energetic, and focused on his children’s smiles as he moves forward.

Prior Statements and Family History

Otomo addressed the separation ahead of Akimoto’s post, writing on her own Instagram account that the decision followed a period of deep deliberation. “Shortly after welcoming 2026, I divorced,” Otomo stated. “I have worried and thought a lot, and have reached this decision.”

She also addressed public speculation surrounding the split, noting that only a small circle of individuals knows the actual circumstances. Regarding their family, Otomo confirmed that the two intend to cooperate in raising their children moving forward.

The couple’s blended family history includes prominent athletic backgrounds. Otomo married beach volleyball player Tatsuo Yamamoto in January 2006, giving birth to their eldest daughter, Miku Akimoto, who is now 20 years old and active as a member of the Japan volleyball national team. Following her divorce from Yamamoto in March 2012, Otomo married Akimoto in August 2013, and the couple were blessed with three children.

Akimoto Won World and Asian Gold Medals

Akimoto competed in the men’s 73-kilogram division during his active career. He captured the gold medal at the 2010 World Championships. He also secured consecutive titles at the Asian Games, winning gold at the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games in China and repeating the feat at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games in South Korea. He currently serves as a coach for the Japan national team.