M-League

M-League operates as a premier professional mahjong league, establishing a structured competitive environment for top-tier players in Japan. It organizes seasonal tournaments featuring professional teams, leveraging broadcast media to deliver high-quality mahjong content to a broad audience. The league implements standardized rules and professional officiating, elevating mahjong from a traditional parlor game to a recognized mental sport.

The league was founded in 2018 by Susumu Fujita, the influential CEO of CyberAgent, Inc. Fujita’s vision stemmed from an ambition to professionalize mahjong, transforming its image and expanding its appeal. His entrepreneurial background at the helm of a major internet services company provided the strategic insight and resources to launch a modern professional sports league around the ancient game.

M-League primarily targets mahjong enthusiasts and a general audience interested in competitive entertainment, fostering a new generation of fans for the game. The league's long-term vision is to further legitimize mahjong globally, aspiring to see it recognized as an Olympic sport. It aims to grow its fan base and showcase the strategic depth of mahjong on an international stage.