As Japan’s national football team continues to attract attention at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the wives and girlfriends (WAGs) of the players have also become a hot topic among fans and the media. Most of the players’ partners keep a relatively private personal life on social media, but many have successful careers as actresses, singers, models, and influencers. Through their social media accounts, fans have been able to catch a glimpse of their lifestyles.
Rika Izumi – Wife of Shogo Taniguchi
Rika Izumi, the wife of center-back Shogo Taniguchi, is a well-known Japanese model, actress, and singer. The couple married in June 2025 after dating for several years. Izumi has more than 1 million Instagram followers and has appeared on the covers of numerous magazines. Born and raised in Kyoto, she landed her first major acting role as Ami Mizuno (Sailor Mercury) in the live-action adaptation of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon.
She also released a character single featuring two songs inspired by Sailor Mercury: “Mi Amor” (“My Love” in Spanish) and “Yakusoku” (“Promise”). Currently signed with Stardust Promotion, Izumi continues to work as an actress, singer, and fashion model. Her everyday style is simple and elegant, favoring versatile pieces in neutral colors.
Airi Nagatomo – Wife of Yuto Nagatomo
Airi Nagatomo, wife of veteran defender Yuto Nagatomo, is a prominent Japanese actress. She debuted in 1999 and won the ISSA Sister Role Grand Prix for her performance in Dream Maker. Nagatomo famously proposed to her at San Siro Stadium in February 2016, and the couple married the following year.
They now have three sons and are known for their happy family life. In 2019, the couple also appeared together on the special television program Captain Tsubasa Olympics.
Airi Suzuki – Girlfriend of Ao Tanaka
Midfielder Ao Tanaka is in a long-term relationship with singer and actress Airi Suzuki. Suzuki joined Hello! Project in 2002 as part of Hello! Project Kids before debuting as the lead vocalist of the popular idol group Cute in 2005. She later became a member of Buono!, another successful girl group. After both groups disbanded in 2017, Suzuki left Hello! Project and launched her solo career with the album Do Me a Favor.
In December 2022, she publicly confirmed her relationship with Tanaka, and the couple has continued to build a stable, long-term romance.
Miku Akematsu – Wife of Ritsu Doan
Miku Akematsu, wife of midfielder Ritsu Doan, is a fashion and beauty influencer. She regularly shares lifestyle, beauty, and fashion content with her followers, showcasing an elegant wardrobe inspired by the “quiet luxury” trend while maintaining her own personal style.
The couple married in 2024 and frequently document their luxurious overseas vacations on social media. They are widely admired by fans for their stylish appearances and affectionate relationship.
Natsuki Yufu – Wife of Ayase Ueda
Natsuki Yufu, wife of striker Ayase Ueda, is also a Japanese social media influencer. She often posts about her daily life, including restaurant visits, café outings, and travel experiences. After welcoming the couple’s first child in April, Yufu has frequently shared heartwarming photos of their baby, expressing her joy as a new mother.
Married since 2023, she and Ueda continue to enjoy a happy family life while balancing football and parenthood.
As Japan continues its World Cup campaign, the spotlight extends beyond the pitch to the families supporting the players behind the scenes. Whether they are established actresses, chart-topping singers, successful models, or influential content creators, these WAGs have built impressive careers of their own while maintaining largely private personal lives. Their growing popularity throughout the tournament offers fans a closer look at the people standing beside Japan’s football stars, proving that they are much more than simply the partners of elite athletes.
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