The Tokyo 2020 gold medallist outfielder, who is also the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Premier12 MVP, confirmed the decision on his Twitter account.  

Suzuki signed for Chicago Cubs of Major League Baseball (MLB) this year after his exploits with Hiroshima Toyo Carp in Japan.

The 28-year-old has 14 home runs this season for the Cubs, with a .262 batting average.

Cubs manager David Ross said he will back the five-time All-Star’s decision.

"I put myself in his shoes," Ross said.

"I would have loved to play for Team USA.

"How cool is that?

"I would never want to take that away from anybody and always kind of push that experience.

"You should play if that's where your heart is."

In 2019, Suzuki starred with a .444 batting average and three home runs at the WBSC Premier12 as Japan finished first.

The 2023 edition is due to be played in the United States, Japan and Taiwan from March 8 to 21.

Japan is placed in Group B and is scheduled to face South Korea, Australia, the Czech Republic and China at the Tokyo Dome from March 9 to 13.