Son Heung-min, the captain of the South Korean national football team and a celebrated player for Tottenham Hotspur, has made it clear that he intends to distance himself from the football world following his retirement.In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Korea, Son reiterated a past statement regarding his future, confirming his decision not to pursue any football-related career post-retirement. “That feeling will never change. It’s a promise I’ve made to myself, and a decision that’s already been made,” he said in the interview published Monday.Despite his profound love for the beautiful game, Son has said he does not see himself taking on a coaching role. “I love playing football, but I don’t have the ability to teach others,” he said, emphasizing that his passion lies in the actual playing of the game, not in guiding others.

However, he assured fans that he would remain close to football as a spectator, maintaining his affection for the sport.The football star also shared insights into his emotional connection with football, dismissing any notion of it being a one-sided love affair. “I’ve laughed and cried because of football, but I’ve never felt it was an unrequited love. We love each other,” Son said.He reflected on how football permeates every aspect of his life, from catching himself watching football videos to observing children playing football with a keen interest.Son, known for his humility and dedication, also revealed his ambitious side as a professional athlete. “The football player Son Heung-min has a lot of ambition, not visible on the outside. I want to win every game and raise trophies,” he said, adding that he hopes that he will continue spreading the joy of football to fans around the world.Returning from a Premier League match, Son arrived at Incheon International Airport to join the national team’s first training session in preparation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian 스포츠토토존 second-round qualifiers against Thailand on March 21.