Son Heung-min reveals post-retirement plans: 'I won't let my son play soccer'
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Son Heung-min revealed his post-retirement plans, stating he will not encourage his son to pursue a career in soccer.
- The Tottenham Hotspur captain expressed a desire for his son to experience a life beyond professional sports.
- He emphasized the importance of a normal life and avoiding the pressures of professional football for his child.
Tottenham Hotspur star Son Heung-min has outlined his vision for life after his playing career, revealing a surprising plan for his future family: he does not intend to steer his son toward professional football.
Son, a national hero in South Korea and a global icon in the sport, expressed a desire for his child to experience a life free from the intense pressures and demands of professional athletics. He believes that a career in football, while rewarding, comes with significant sacrifices and a unique set of challenges that he would prefer his son to avoid.
"I don't want my son to play soccer. I want him to live a normal life," Son stated, as reported by Chosun Ilbo. This sentiment underscores a desire for his offspring to have a more conventional upbringing and a broader range of life experiences, unburdened by the relentless training, public scrutiny, and physical toll associated with elite sports.
The captain's perspective suggests a deep understanding of the sacrifices required to reach the pinnacle of professional football and a wish to shield his own child from that demanding path. Instead, he envisions a future where his son can explore various interests and live a life less defined by the singular pursuit of athletic excellence.
I don't want my son to play soccer. I want him to live a normal life.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.