Who Is Kotaro Matsushima? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on February 26, 1993, in Kumamoto, Japan, Kotaro Matsushima is a prominent figure in the rugby world. With a career spanning several years, he has emerged as one of Japan's most recognized rugby players, known not only for his remarkable skill on the field but also for his engaging personality off it. As of 2025, Matsushima is 32 years old and continues to play a vital role in both domestic leagues and international tournaments.
| Occupation | Rugby Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 26, 1993 |
| Age | 32 Years |
| Birth Place | Pretoria, South Africa |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | South Africa |
Popularity
Kotaro Matsushima's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Kotaro Matsushima stands tall at 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) and weighs around 88 kg (194 lbs). His athletic build and agility allow him to excel in both offensive and defensive plays, making him a valuable asset to any team. In addition to his height and weight, his strong physical stats contribute to his performance as a wing and fullback.
Matsushima joined French Top 14 side ASM Clermont Auvergne following the 2020 Top League season. He made his debut in a 36–27 defeat to Racing 92 in the 2019-20 European Rugby Champions Cup, scoring a try. However, his Top 14 debut against Toulouse ended after 16 minutes because of an injury.
His first start since returning from injury saw him score his first two tries in domestic competition, in a 50–29 win over Pau.
He made important contributions to Clermont's 2020-21 European Rugby Champions Cup campaign, scoring a hat-trick in a 51–38 away win at Bristol Bears in the pool stage and a decisive late try in the Round of 16 against Wasps.
His second season in France was cut short by injury, damaging his shoulder in defeat to Leicester Tigers in April 2022, which would prove to be his final performance for Les Jaunards. His contribution to the team was praised by coach Franck Azéma, who described how Matsushima "has speed, punch, he brings a certain execution in the gesture.
He has speed that everyone sees but he has a great knowledge of the fundamentals of the position of full-back or winger. He's comfortable with the ball and that is what you expect from an ASM player." Matsushima spoke highly of how his experience developed his game, saying "I gained a lot of match experience and have become more mentally composed.
I've gotten better at making quick decisions."
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Regarding his personal life, Matsushima tends to keep a low profile. As of 2025, he has not publicly disclosed his relationship status. Rumors about his dating life occasionally swirl around social media, but he has not confirmed any girlfriend or boyfriend. His family is supportive of his career, although details about them are generally kept private, respecting his wish for a life outside the limelight.
Net Worth and Salary
Kotaro Matsushima's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $5 million, primarily accrued from his professional rugby contracts, endorsements, and sponsorships. His salary fluctuates with team contracts and competitions but is often reported to be in the range of $300,000 to $500,000 annually. His success in rugby, combined with lucrative endorsement deals, has solidified his financial standing.
Matsushima was integral at the 2019 Rugby World Cup as Japan reached the knockout stages for the first time. Matsushima scored Japan's first World Cup hat-trick against Russia on 20 September 2019 in the opening game of the tournament in Tokyo and was also awarded the player of the match in the same match.
Against Ireland at Shizuoka Stadium he performed well again, being denied two tries only by an unfavourable bounce of the ball. In their third pool game against Samoa at Toyota Stadium, Matsushima scored with the final play of the game to give the Brave Blossoms a crucial bonus point in a 38–19 victory.
In the 28–21 victory over Scotland that qualified Japan for the knockout stage, he scored his side's opening try, before his break helped to set up Keita Inagaki's score.
Japan were eliminated by eventual champions South Africa in the quarter-finals, but Matsushima was named in the team of the tournament by ESPN and The Guardian, with honourable mentions from Sky Sports and Rugby365.
Career, Business, and Investments
Matsushima began his professional career with Yamato Forge before making his mark on the international stage with the Japan national rugby team. He gained worldwide recognition during the 2019 Rugby World Cup for his outstanding performance. Beyond rugby, Matsushima is involved in various business ventures, including sponsorship deals with sports brands and investments in health and fitness startups, reflecting his interests outside of sports.
Matsushima joined Japanese Top League side Suntory Sungoliath prior to the 2014–15 Top League season. He made his debut for the side in the opening round of the tournament in a 17–13 victory over Coca-Cola Red Sparks.
Two more appearances followed in the pool stage of the competition – against Kintetsu Liners and NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes – to help his side finish in second position in Pool B to qualify for Group 1, the title play-offs.
He started all seven of their matches in Group 1 in the outside centre position and scored four tries – two of those in their final group match against Toyota Verblitz in a 40–19 victory – as they finished fifth in the group to qualify for the wildcard play-offs.
Social Network
As a public figure, Kotaro Matsushima is quite active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. He uses these platforms to connect with fans, share insights into his life, training routines, and participation in rugby events. His social media presence not only strengthens his brand but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes.
Education
Kotaro Matsushima pursued his education while simultaneously developing his rugby skills. He attended Kumamoto Seiryū High School, where his passion for rugby blossomed. Later, he continued to hone his skills at Waseda University, balancing academics with his burgeoning rugby career. His education has played a vital role in shaping his discipline and dedication, both essential traits for a successful athlete.
He acquired Japanese nationality at the age of 5 and moved to Japan the following year with his family. After graduating from the local elementary school in Tokyo (where he played soccer), he lived for one year in South Africa and started playing rugby. He finished his junior schooling at Graeme College in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape.
He played for the U13a rugby side and won the most outstanding player of the year award. He returned to Japan at the age of 13 and finished his schooling at Tōin Gakuen High School in Yokohama.
