Badminton star Reiko Shiota (25) is reportedly in a relationship with businessman Yoshihisa Amano (36), says the latest edition of weekly magazine FRIDAY. They were seen on a date at a cafe in Minami-Azabu last month, and another one at a steak restaurant in Roppongi last week.

Shiota used to play doubles with Kumiko Ogura (26), and together they were known as "OguShio," admired for their beauty as well as their talent. They represented Japan at the Olympics last year, but split up in November 2008. Shiota is now teamed up with male badminton player Shintaro Ikeda (28), earning them the name of "IkeShio."

It was also learned last week that Shiota has signed with management agency Cent Force, setting herself up to become a sportscaster after her eventual retirement from badminton.

Amano, on the other hand, is a former player for the national rugby team. He currently manages a sports gym, which Shiota was seen visiting before their date last week. Described as an "ikemen," he has previously been romantically linked to actress Misaki Ito (32) and newscaster Christel Takigawa (31).

When asked about FRIDAY's article, Cent Force stated that Shiota has been getting athletic advice from Amano, and that there is no romance between the two.