762 Billion 'Mujeokhamdae' vs 491.2 Billion 'Sambagundan'

Olympics Final Weekend, Soccer and Basketball Stars with Sky-High Prices All Gathered

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] On the final weekend of the Tokyo Olympics, the stars will shine. Superstars boasting billion-won market values will gather on the green field and basketball courts to fiercely compete for the champion's throne. This is the so-called 'Game of Thrones.'

In men's soccer, the 'Invincible Armada' Spain and the 'Samba Squad' Brazil will compete for the gold medal on the 7th at 8:30 PM at Yokohama International Stadium. Brazil aims for a consecutive second victory following the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, while Spain seeks its first gold medal in 29 years since the 1992 Barcelona Games.

This is truly a final worth billions. Among the 16 teams participating in men's soccer at the Tokyo Olympics, these two teams ranked first and second in total market value. European transfer specialist media 'Transfermarkt' calculated and announced the market values of the 16 men's soccer teams on the 21st of last month, placing Spain first with 563 million euros (approximately 762 billion KRW). Brazil followed with 363.7 million euros (approximately 491.2 billion KRW).

Although Spain has the advantage in market value, the ball is round. Spain's squad is formidable, strengthened by six key players who led the senior team to the semifinals of Euro 2020 held from June 11 to July 11. The midfield and attack are dazzling, featuring Pedri (19, Barcelona) valued at 100 billion KRW, wildcard players Dani Ceballos (25) and Marco Asensio (25, both Real Madrid). The defense line, including Pau Torres (24, Villarreal), is also solid.

Brazil leads with Richarlison (24, Everton), who tops the tournament scoring with five goals. His scoring sense is sharp enough not to miss opportunities in front of the goal. His playing style resembles Cristiano Ronaldo (36, Juventus), earning him the nickname 'Samba's Ronaldo.' The defense, anchored by veteran fullback Dani Alves (38, S?o Paulo), who played for FC Barcelona for a long time, is also airtight.

Meanwhile, in men's basketball, the United States, composed of NBA stars, and France, the pride of European basketball, will face off in the final at 11:30 AM on the 7th at Saitama Super Arena.

The two teams meet again for the gold medal for the first time in 21 years since the 2000 Sydney Games. In Sydney, the United States defeated France 85-75.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The market values of the players appearing in the basketball final are as staggering as those in soccer. The United States, aiming for a fourth consecutive Olympic gold, is led by Kevin Durant (33, Brooklyn), who is undoubtedly the top star. On the 19th of last month, Forbes, the American business magazine, surveyed and announced the top nine Olympic athletes by annual income, with Durant ranking first. From May last year to May this year, he earned $75 million (approximately 85.5 billion KRW). Although Durant's performance was initially below expectations relative to his market value, his skills have gradually revived. In the semifinal against Australia on the 5th, he recorded 23 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 steals, showing a fierce performance. All 12 players on the U.S. team, including Devin Booker (24, Phoenix) and Damian Lillard (31, Portland), are active in the NBA.

France is expected to counter with NBA players such as Evan Fournier (28, Boston) and Rudy Gobert (29, Utah). Fournier leads the game as a guard, while center Gobert protects the paint, creating an impressive team synergy.