Son Heung-min ranks among World Cup's fastest players

South Korean captain Son Heung-min has proven his enduring speed by ranking seventh among all players in the opening matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. He recorded a top speed of 35.2 kilometers per hour, matching Jed Spence of England.

Despite being in his early thirties, Son showcased his continued athleticism during South Korea's first group stage match against the Czech Republic. Playing as a forward, he was actively involved across the pitch, demonstrating potent attacking prowess with six shots, even though he did not score.

The list of fastest players was topped by Keito Nakamura of Japan at 36.7 km/h, followed jointly by Erling Haaland of Norway and Abdulkodir Khusainov of Uzbekistan at 36.5 km/h. Other notable speeds included Mohamed Toure of Australia (35.8 km/h), Ryan Gravenberch of the Netherlands (35.6 km/h), and Alan Minda of Ecuador (35.5 km/h).

Son's speed placed him ahead of prominent players such as France's Kylian Mbappé, who clocked 35.1 km/h, and Portugal's Pedro Neto at 34.8 km/h. This ranking, based on the first group stage matches, is subject to change as the tournament continues.

Son Heung-min also started as the main striker in South Korea's second group stage match against Mexico. He actively exploited the spaces behind Mexico's defense but was unable to find the net before being substituted in the 57th minute. He will be aiming for his first goal of the tournament in South Korea's upcoming match against South Africa on June 25th.