For many, Son Heung-min’s decade at Tottenham Hotspur will be remembered for his searing pace and memorable goals, including a solo effort against Burnley that won the Fifa Puskas award. But his legacy stretches far beyond the pitch. As the South Korean forward prepares to join Major League Soccer (MLS), his ten-year journey from a young, expensive signing to a club legend offers a significant lesson in how a single athlete can change perceptions and inspire a nation.
Kevin Wimmer, a close friend and former Spurs teammate, captures this sentiment, stating: “I’m not sure we’ll see another Sonny at Tottenham. To be at one club – especially one as big as Spurs – for 10 years in this day and age is a very special achievement.”
From Humble Beginnings to a Spurs Legend
When Son arrived in north London from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 for a then-record £22.5m for an Asian player, his place in the club’s future was far from certain. In his early days, he struggled to settle and even asked to leave. He was convinced by manager Mauricio Pochettino to stay, and in doing so, laid the foundation for a career that would make him a Spurs great.
Micky Hazard, a former Spurs midfielder, now proudly recalls Son’s journey, saying, “When he first arrived, I didn’t know much about him. Ten years on, he’s leaving a Spurs legend.” Hazard, who was part of the guard of honour for the departing player, shared a moment that speaks volumes about Son’s character: “Sonny came up to each and every one of us, shook our hands, and said: ‘Now I’m a legend.’
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Despite everything he achieved in 10 years at Spurs, he still didn’t believe he was a legend until he won a trophy. I think there is something special about that, something beautiful. It says so much about his character.” Son finally got his trophy this year, leading Tottenham to victory in the Europa League final against Manchester United, ending the club’s 17-year wait for a major honour.
The Power of Being Seen
Son’s influence is particularly profound in his native South Korea. “Son is a pride of whole nation,” says Sungmo Lee, a South Korean football journalist. Lee adds that Son has consistently ranked among the top three most valuable brands in South Korea, alongside K-pop superstars like BTS and Blackpink. “One of the reasons for that is South Korean people regard him as the national treasure and pride of the country,” Sungmo Lee explained.
This “Sonmania” has been likened to “being with a rock star,” as recalled by former Spurs defender Kyle Walker. Walker, who visited Seoul with Son, described a frenzy of fans that was “nothing compared to Sonny.” Sungmo Lee, who witnessed a similar reaction at Incheon Airport, said, “When Son appeared, the reaction was similar to how fans greet Oasis and Coldplay when they step on stage.” Son’s face is a ubiquitous presence on billboards and buses, and a huge mural in his honour stands in his hometown of Chuncheon. This level of adulation reflects not just Son’s talent but the immense pride he has brought to his country.
The true impact of Son’s career can be felt in the way he has inspired so many young Asian athletes. Winning the Premier League Golden Boot was a moment that shattered long-standing stereotypes, with many previously believing it was an “impossible” achievement for a player from Asia. His success story has become a source of hope and pride, proving that hard work and dedication can pave the way to the top of the global game.
A Departure and a Legacy
Son’s move to Los Angeles FC is now considered a subject to the completion of paperwork and a medical. This follows the departure of Harry Kane last year, leaving a significant void at the club. The club’s revenue streams may be affected, as football finance expert Kieran Maguire notes that fans from South Korea, many of whom are wealthy with disposable income, often purchase multiple shirts and other merchandise. However, Maguire also adds that the difference in prize money for a single position in the league table is more impactful.
Whatever the financial implications, Son’s legacy at Tottenham is secure. “No-one will ever forget Sonny,” says Wimmer. He leaves behind not only 173 goals in 454 appearances but also a reputation for on-pitch tenacity and off-pitch generosity, such as giving his shirt to a young fan on the pitch. Son is in advanced negotiations with Los Angeles FC and will continue his football journey, with a legacy that transcends his playing career.
