Tottenham’s Son Heung-min wins Asia’s International Player of the Year award for the fourth time
Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min has once again claimed the title of Asia’s International Player of the Year, awarded by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) at its annual ceremony in Seoul, South Korea. This marks the fourth time Son has received this prestigious accolade, having previously won in 2015, 2017, and 2019.
His win continues to solidify his status not only within Asian football but also on the global stage as one of Tottenham’s standout players. This year, he takes over the title from Kim Min-jae, his compatriot who currently plays for Bayern Munich.
Son, who captains both Tottenham and the South Korean national team, has consistently showcased his skills and leadership, making him a linchpin in Tottenham’s lineup.
His contributions on the field have resonated deeply with fans and the football community, especially as he continues to raise the profile of Asian players within Europe’s top leagues. His award underscores his remarkable consistency and influence, both in the Premier League and on the international scene.
The AFC also introduced the inaugural women’s international award this year, recognizing Australia’s Ellie Carpenter, who plays for French club Lyon. This step marks a significant milestone in highlighting the achievements of female players from Asia.
Carpenter’s contributions at Lyon and with the Australian national team demonstrate the growing impact of Asian players in women’s football. Her recognition stands as a testament to the AFC’s commitment to advancing women’s representation in the sport.
Beyond the international player awards, the AFC also recognized its top male and female players based within Asia. Qatar’s Akram Afif, who played a crucial role in leading Qatar to victory in the Asian Cup earlier this year, claimed the men’s award.
Afif finished the tournament as the top scorer with eight goals, an achievement that reflects his offensive prowess and influence on the field. He previously won the award in 2019 and expressed his commitment to achieving a third title, underlining his dedication to both his club and national team.
Japan’s Kiko Seike was honored as the women’s player of the year within Asia. Seike played an instrumental role in helping the Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies secure their second consecutive Japanese league title, breaking a season record for goals scored.
Her move to Brighton in England this past July is a major step in her career, positioning her to further showcase her talents on a broader stage. In a video message, Seike expressed her desire to continue excelling for her club and national team and to contribute to the growth of Asian football globally.
The AFC also awarded the Coach of the Year title to Japan’s Go Oiwa, whose strategic expertise and leadership were vital in guiding his team to success. This recognition emphasizes the significance of coaching in cultivating talent and fostering competitive teams across Asia.
These awards celebrate the achievements of Asian footballers and coaches, whose talent and dedication continue to shape the sport regionally and internationally.
Son’s win, in particular, adds to Tottenham’s reputation as a club that nurtures world-class talent, showcasing the impact of his achievements and leadership. His ongoing success not only strengthens Tottenham’s profile but also serves as inspiration for aspiring players across Asia.
Read more:Tottenham Boss Ange Postecoglou Unfazed by Ten Hag’s Sacking, Delivers Cold Verdict
Read more: Tottenham star named amongst the worst Premier League Team of the Week