Ayumi Hamasaki To Divorce Husband After 2 1/2 Years

Ayumi Hamasaki and her husband have separated and are getting a divorce.

The announcement was made on September 12 through Hamasaki's fan club website. The singer explained that she wanted her fans to hear it from her first instead of learning about it through the media.

"For 3 years, he and I have walked together as partners, but now we each go down our own path," the singer wrote.

No explanation was given as to why the two have decided to get divorced.

Officials clarified that Hamasaki and her husband have not formally filed for divorce yet, but are in fact separated at this time. The singer's agency would not comment on their relationship, stating that it was a personal matter.

Hamasaki's husband was an American medical student 10 years younger than her. She announced her engagement to him on December 13, 2013. Their marriage was registered on March 3, 2014.

On October 22, 2015, Hamasaki made a controversial tweet suggesting that her marriage was on the rocks. At the time, she denied rumors that the two were having issues.

Hamasaki has said that she will continue to focus on rehearsing for her tours and recording new music.

This is the 2nd time Hamasaki's marriage has ended in divorce. On January 1, 2011, she married Australian actor and model Manuel Schwarz. The two later got divorced on January 16, 2012.