The world of One Piece has captivated fans for over two decades, filled with mystery, emotion, and the enduring dream of finding the One Piece treasure. Yet among the series’ most debated topics is one of deep sentimental and narrative weight:
Who will be the final member of the Straw Hat Pirates?
While many fans have speculated across the years naming Yamato, Vivi, Carrot, and others as potential additions Eiichiro Oda may have already revealed the answer long ago, hidden beneath subtle interactions and story choices. Recent arcs and character developments now make it clearer than ever: Luffy has already made his final choice, and the clues were always there.
Luffy’s Crew Dream: A Promise of Ten Members
From early in the series, Luffy made his goal clear: he wanted at least ten members in his pirate crew, excluding himself. Currently, the Straw Hat Pirates include:
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Zoro
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Nami
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Usopp
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Sanji
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Chopper
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Robin
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Franky
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Brook
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Jinbe
That leaves one final spot to be filled, and with the Final Saga underway, the answer is about to be revealed.
Vivi: The Chosen One Hidden in Plain Sight
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Even though she chose to stay in Alabasta for her people, Luffy never stopped considering her part of the crew. This is emphasized by Oda himself, who has confirmed in interviews and official data books that Vivi is a Straw Hat in spirit.
Now, with the Reverie incident, the death of her father Cobra, and the World Government hunting her, Vivi is no longer tied to the throne. She's on the run, in need of protection, and once again connected to the Straw Hats for good.
Yamato’s Exit: A Major Redirection
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For a long time, Yamato was the leading contender to be the final Straw Hat. Her loyalty to Oden, admiration for Luffy, and intense desire to explore the world all seemed like perfect qualifications. However, Oda subverted expectations when Yamato chose to stay in Wano and protect its people, mirroring Vivi’s own earlier decision.
This choice wasn’t a misstep; it was deliberate. Oda showed readers that even strong candidates can walk away from the crew when duty calls. This shift placed the spotlight back on Vivi, who, unlike before, now has no obligations holding her back.
Foreshadowing from Alabasta to the Final Saga
Oda’s storytelling is rich in foreshadowing, and Vivi’s arc was never truly over. When the Straw Hats left Alabasta, they didn’t part ways forever; they made a promise to meet again. Now that Vivi is alone and vulnerable, that moment has finally arrived.
- Her symbolic farewell with the X-marks on their wrists represented loyalty.
- Her plea to Luffy, “If we meet again… will you still call me your friend?” is poetic foreshadowing.
- The recent reveal of her connection to Queen Lily, and potentially to the Ancient Weapon Uranus, makes her vital to the final battle against Imu and the World Government.
In every way, emotionally, politically, and narratively, Vivi fits the mold of a true Straw Hat Pirate.
Why Vivi Is the Perfect Final Straw Hat
- Long-standing Bond: No candidate has as deep and emotional a connection with the crew as Vivi.
- Narrative Symmetry: Vivi was the only non-official member in the original Grand Line journey. Completing her arc now brings the story full circle.
- Endgame Relevance: As a survivor of the Reverie and key to the Ancient Weapons, her presence is no longer optional; it’s essential.
- Crew Balance: With Vivi, the Straw Hats reach their final number of ten (excluding Luffy), fulfilling Luffy’s original wish.
Related:-
One Piece: The Truth Behind Imu's Obsession With Vivi – Oda's Clues Confirm Her Tragic Fate
Other Contenders and Why They Fall Short
Carrot was a fan-favorite due to her bonds during the Whole Cake Island and Wano arcs, but her departure back to Zou, taking on a leadership role, pushed her out of the running.
Yamato, as previously discussed, had all the traits of a Straw Hat, but chose a different path.
Bonney has major relevance in the Final Saga due to her ties to Kuma and the Celestial Dragons, but her emotional connection to the crew isn't strong enough.
Vivi, however, checks every box.
The Emotional Reunion is Coming
As One Piece heads into its final arcs, the moment fans have waited for is nearing: Vivi’s full return to the Straw Hat crew. With the crew scattered but slowly regrouping, and the world order on the brink of collapse, this is the perfect time for Vivi to rejoin the family that always considered her one of their own.
Whether it’s during the final war against the World Government, or before the final voyage to Laughtale, Vivi’s presence will not only fulfill Luffy’s original dream it will deliver a level of emotional payoff few anime or manga have ever achieved.
Also Read:-
One Piece Final War : These Characters will Turn Against World Government
One Piece Final War : These Characters will Turn Against World Government
Conclusion: The Final Straw Hat Was Always Vivi
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Oda has never been a storyteller who forgets his promises. Vivi's story has always felt like a thread left unfinished, not because it was discarded, but because it was meant to be picked up again at the very end.
Luffy didn’t just choose his final crew member in Wano or Elbaf. He chose her back in Alabasta, and now, with the fate of the world at stake, she is finally coming home.
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