People around the world are passionate about sports because of the heart-stirring emotion found in unscripted drama. Lou Gehrig, the New York Yankees first baseman who dominated the 1930s, transformed sorrow into hope at his retirement ceremony after being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), declaring, "Today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth." Yogi Berra, the legendary Major League catcher who represented the 1950s, left the immortal quote, "It ain't over till it's over." Muhammad Ali, regarded as the greatest boxer of all time, said, "Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them—a desire, a dream." Pele, the "King of Football" who led Brazil to three World Cup titles, emphasized relentless challenge, saying, "The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning." These are aphorisms that hint at why they are called true champions.
The 2026 World Cup, which is now driving people around the world into a frenzy of excitement, is heating up even more as a "last dance of the veterans." Cape Verde, a small African nation whose name is even unfamiliar, recorded a 0-0 draw against title contender Spain in its first match. Goalkeeper Vozinha, who took the field as the last line of defense at the age of 40 when he could have already retired, put on a dazzling performance, blocking seven decisive shots. His Instagram followers, which had numbered just over 50,000, surged to 11.57 million, surpassing Major League superstar Shohei Ohtani (about 10.7 million). His weighty words, "This is what we work for in life, to experience moments like this," were more than enough to strongly resonate with people.
Lionel Messi (38), the "God of Football," also showed his enduring strength. In the first match against Algeria, he set the record for the oldest hat-trick at a World Cup and tied for first place in all-time World Cup goals. With just one more goal, he will rewrite World Cup history. There is no "aging curve"—the decline in skill that comes with age—to be found in these players. There is only sweat and challenge. For Son Heung-min (34), who takes the field against Mexico on the 19th, this World Cup may be his last dance. We should cheer enthusiastically and look forward to the performance of the player who is opening a new horizon for Korean football.
