Salaryman's Club

Salaryman's Club was produced by Liden Films and broadcast in early 2022 as part of the winter anime season. The series centers on the unique premise of combining high-stakes corporate life with the fast-paced sport of badminton, focusing on protagonist Mikoto Shiratori. It emerged during a period where sports-themed anime were diversifying their subject matter beyond traditional high school settings, aiming to highlight the balancing act required of adult athletes who must navigate both professional responsibilities and competitive sporting careers.

The character designs for the series were crafted by Suzuhito Yasuda, an artist recognized for his distinct, sharp visual style seen in works like Durarara!! and Call of the Night. Yasuda’s approach to the characters was intended to bridge the gap between polished corporate aesthetics and the dynamic, sweaty intensity of professional badminton. Upon its release, the show was received as a grounded, refreshing take on the workplace drama genre, praised for its focus on adult team dynamics and the authentic depiction of corporate culture alongside the sport.