The main page of British public broadcaster BBC Sports featured Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham).
Tottenham Hotspur won the UEFA Europa League final for the 2024-2025 season against Manchester United 1-0 at Estadio San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain, on the 22nd (Korean time).
With this victory, Tottenham lifted a trophy for the first time in 17 years since the 2008 League Cup, breaking their title drought. At the same time, Son Heung-min also succeeded in winning a major trophy with his team for the first time in his 15-year professional career. This is his first European competition victory in 41 years.
This final was not just a victory but an important match for qualifying for next season's UEFA Champions League. Despite finishing 17th in the Premier League this season, Tottenham made a dramatic turnaround, while Manchester United had to bow their heads in a final that had more than £100 million (about 186 billion won) in revenue at stake.
Tottenham took the lead with a winning goal from Brennan Johnson in the 41st minute of the first half and managed to withstand intense attacks from Manchester United until the end. In particular, in the second half, Micky van de Ven made a crucial defensive stop on the goal line, saving the team.
In the 22nd minute of the second half, captain Son Heung-min was substituted in for Richarlison. Son Heung-min participated in the counterattacks with active pressing and movement up front, and in the 36th minute of the second half, he even created a shooting opportunity.
After the final whistle blew, Son Heung-min wrapped himself in the Taegeukgi and raised the trophy high. Amidst the cheers of his teammates, he lifted the final trophy at the center stage, completing the long-awaited winning scene of 'Captain Son.'
The official channel of the UEFA Europa League did not miss this moment. UEFA noted, "It was an incredible sight. The Tottenham players sang and danced with the fans, enjoying the joy," adding, "Son Heung-min approached the stands again to perform a solo celebration and received a round of applause from the filled stadium. The player most deserving of this moment was undoubtedly this Korean striker."
BBC completely covered the sports main with scenes from Son Heung-min's trophy presentation. The media stated, "Son Heung-min is one of the most likable figures in football. He is truly a dedicated and amazing player for the club Tottenham," while announcing the news of Son Heung-min's first career victory and highlighting his reputation.
Meanwhile, Son Heung-min, in an interview with broadcaster TNT Sports after the match, expressed his feelings, saying, "Call me a legend. Just today! For 17 years, (there have been great players at the club, but no one has won). Today was that day, and that's why I want to say I'm a legend today. I will enjoy and celebrate today."
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