Tomiyasu: Named for the Pacific, Shaped by Sport

Takehiro Tomiyasu's name, gifted by his parents in Japan, signifies health and a heart as broad as the Pacific Ocean, mirroring the resilience and expansive spirit he's demonstrated throughout his career.

Born in Fukuoka in 1998, Tomiyasu grew up in a sports-centric household. His mother, Kayoko, was a track and field athlete, while his father practiced kendo and played baseball. This environment fostered his speed, body control, and competitive resilience, traits later lauded by coaches across continents.

A seemingly minor childhood event, a jaw injury from a home running machine, profoundly altered his trajectory. Prevented from swimming, a friend's invitation led him to a football trial, a sport he embraced with passion, abandoning swimming.

His football journey began when teacher Kanji Tsuji noticed his exceptional running style, likening it to the wind, and encouraged his parents to enroll him in a club. This pivotal moment set Tomiyasu on a clear path in professional football.

Tomiyasu's mother, Kayoko, passed away during a challenging period in his Arsenal career. He honored her memory by dedicating his first Arsenal goal, scored in October 2023, to her, a moment that deeply resonated with teammates and symbolized the values he embodies.

After a distinguished tenure at Arsenal, where he made over 80 appearances and was respected for his tactical intelligence and character, Tomiyasu transitioned to Ajax Amsterdam in December 2025, embarking on a new European chapter. He has also represented Japan in multiple World Cups.