Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) has become embroiled in an unfortunate incident. At a time when he needs to elevate his concentration ahead of the UEFA Europa League final this season, shocking circumstances have emerged in which he was threatened by a woman and her accomplice using 'pregnancy' as a pretext. Son's side has submitted a complaint to the police, claiming that this incident is a clear 'extortion case,' and the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul has currently launched an investigation.

Son Heung-min's legal representative and agency, Son & Football Limited, stated on the 15th through an official position that, "threats to spread false information along with demands for money have continued, and we deemed it necessary to take action, leading to the submission of a complaint for extortion charges." They added, "The incident is currently under investigation by the police, and we plan to respond strictly based on the investigation results."

He also noted, "Son Heung-min is a clear victim in this matter," and added, "We plan to take strong legal action without leniency regarding the continued threats based on false claims."

Police arrest two accomplices in extortion case…attempted to extort money with false pregnancy claims

The Gangnam Police Station in Seoul announced on the 7th that after receiving a complaint from Son Heung-min's side, they began an investigation. As specific circumstances came to light, they arrested a woman in her 20s, referred to as A, and a man in his 40s, referred to as B, on the 15th on charges of extortion and attempted extortion.

According to police officials, the two individuals demanded money from Son Heung-min claiming 'pregnancy' and reportedly threatened to spread false information about his private life to the media if he refused.

This incident has quickly reached not only domestic media but also British media. The prominent British newspaper 'The Guardian' reported, "Son Heung-min was threatened by a woman claiming 'I am pregnant,'" adding, "His agency emphasized that he is a victim and is currently pursuing legal action."

'The Sun' also detailed, "Son Heung-min stated in a past interview that he has no plans to marry before retirement, and he currently has no spouse or children. The extortion case is under police investigation."

The Daily Mail analyzed, "Son Heung-min has been interrupted at a critical point as Tottenham seeks to win a trophy for the first time in 17 years," adding, "How he overcomes this situation as team captain could influence the outcome of the final."

Worst setback ahead of the season's final stage…will the 'desperate captain for the trophy' waver?

Tottenham will face Manchester United in a fateful match in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) final, which will be held on the 22nd (local time in Korea) at the Estadio San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain. This will be Son Heung-min's third final and a prime opportunity to challenge for his first trophy.

However, this extortion case is the worst timing that could disrupt Son Heung-min's concentration. Having recently recovered from a foot injury, there are concerns about psychological stress from external factors.

Son Heung-min had been sidelined for a while due to a foot injury towards the end of the season but was regaining his form after returning in the recent match against Crystal Palace. Tottenham is also focusing on improving Son's physical condition, putting significant effort into preparing him for the final.

This season, Tottenham has recorded one of their worst performances in the league, dropping to 17th place, effectively derailing their league goals. The only escape route is winning the Europa League. Son Heung-min bears significant responsibility within the team. As captain, he needs to uplift the team's spirit and maintain stability.

In this context, the 'pregnancy extortion incident' is reportedly taken seriously within Tottenham, as it may act as a source of anxiety for the entire team beyond just a personal issue.

“All legal responses completed, preparing without wavering”…Son Heung-min's side determined to confront the situation

However, Son Heung-min's side believes that the event is likely to be settled quickly. Following the complaint, the police investigation is progressing rapidly, and if the arrested suspects admit to making false claims, they could face both criminal and civil liabilities.

Son Heung-min's agency stated, "Once the accurate results of the investigation are obtained, we plan to make an additional statement," adding, "To protect the player, the agency has completed all legal measures and is supporting Son Heung-min to focus on his performance."

They also added, "We apologize for the distress caused to fans by this unfortunate issue. Son Heung-min is preparing for the remainder of the season without wavering and will demonstrate a sense of responsibility to the end."

Son Heung-min is all in for this final. Having started his professional career in Hamburg, Germany, he has not lifted a trophy in his 15 years. Even in his nearly ten years at Tottenham, he has devoted himself to the team more than anyone, but the result has been two final defeats.

In a recent interview, he expressed, "This Europa League is the last puzzle piece of my career. I want to complete it," showing his determination. The club is also preparing tactics centered around Son, mobilizing all available resources. Head coach Ang Postecoglou said, "Son is a player with an incredibly strong mentality. All members of the team trust Son," sending a message of support.

Meanwhile, Manchester United is also desperate for the Europa League title amidst unsatisfactory league results. This season, the two teams faced each other three times, with Tottenham winning all matches, but the tension on the European stage is different.

Son Heung-min stands at the greatest test of his career. He faces pressure to perform while coming back from injury, preparing for the final, and being the team's sole hope. On top of that, he faces a bizarre extortion incident. However, if he can overcome all of these crises, the 2024-25 season could be a turning point in his life.

[OSEN]