"He is truly the best person."
Tottenham held an open-top parade in downtown London on the 24th (Korea time) to celebrate their victory in the 2024-2025 UEFA Europa League (UEL). On the 22nd, Tottenham defeated Manchester United (Man U) 1-0 in the final held at Estadio San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain, raising the trophy.
As a result, Tottenham has reached the pinnacle of an official competition for the first time in 17 years since their League Cup victory in the 2007-2008 season. In terms of European competitions, it is the first time in 41 years since the 1983-1984 UEFA Cup. Due to a foot injury, Son Heung-min was excluded from the starting lineup against Man U in the final but was substituted in the second half, helping to maintain the team's lead.
Making his professional debut in Hamburg, Germany, in 2010, he joined Tottenham in 2015 and experienced his first victory after 10 years. This UEL victory is particularly special for him. He made his professional debut in the Bundesliga in Hamburg in 2010 and tasted victory for the first time with his club.
Tottenham's victory has also drawn significant attention for the way Son Heung-min raised the trophy following his dedication. On the day, Son Heung-min, wearing sunglasses and a victory shirt, received cheers from fans as he traveled around London on a bus. The Tottenham squad shared the joy as they moved about 3 kilometers through downtown London over the course of 2 hours.
Around 150,000 fans gathered throughout the streets. They set off blue and white smoke bombs and climbed traffic lights and streetlights, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere. British media outlet Daily Mail reported, "The parade route became a festive venue." From the bus, Son Heung-min exclaimed, "Look at this. It's such an amazing feeling. I will never forget this moment. Wow!"
He continued, "I dreamed of this moment. I am truly happy to have won while wearing a Tottenham uniform. I am so proud of our team." He added, "It feels like only two days have passed since the match against Man U. I feel like I only slept for five hours, and now it's already Friday. We achieved something that no one has done in 17 years. It is even more meaningful as an achievement I have reached as the captain. It's hard to express in words."
Finally, he stated, "I have wanted to win at Tottenham for a long time. That's why today is such a special day. I am so happy that I can't express it in words."
Daily Mail reported that Son Heung-min was unable to contain his joy for two days and ended up with a hoarse voice. Meanwhile, Tottenham did not hold a parade after winning the League Cup in 2008, only revealing the trophy to fans before the UEFA Cup match. The last official parade was held near the old home ground, White Hart Lane, after winning the FA Cup in 1991.
Team colleague James Maddison's comments have also garnered attention. Although he could not participate in the final due to injury, he hugged Son Heung-min when the victory was secured, both shedding tears. He said during the parade, "Son Heung-min is the best person I have ever met, so I really like him," adding, "It was so great to see him lift the trophy for Tottenham."
Maddison said, "Son Heung-min lifted the trophy at the club he loves and has been with for over 10 years. This is our job, but it is still so moving." He added, "I think it will be really hard to meet someone better 'as a person' than him throughout my life. He is truly the best 'person.'"
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