Ohtani's 50th home run ball sells for nearly $4.4 million despite ownership disputes

Shohei Ohtani's 50th home run ball has sold at auction for nearly $4.4 million, setting a record for any sports ball. The auction closed early Wednesday after starting on September 27 with a $500,000 bid. The sale comes amid ongoing disputes over the ball's ownership. Christian Zacek claims he obtained the ball at a game, while Max Matus and Joseph Davidov have filed lawsuits asserting they had possession first. Despite the legal battles, all parties agreed to proceed with the auction. Ohtani's historic achievement marks him as the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season.