The Young American Dreamed of Swapping Jerseys with Sonny… But He Was Already Gone

The Historic 500th Goal That Shook MLS

On October 19, 2025, Son Heung-min etched his name into LAFC’s history by scoring the club’s 500th official MLS goal during a 2-2 draw against the Colorado Rapids. The goal came in the 42nd minute of the first half, when Son received a precise through ball from Denis Bouanga, skillfully evaded defenders, and fired a powerful left-footed shot into the net. This milestone was achieved in just 260 league matches, breaking the previous record held by DC United, who reached 500 goals in 295 games. The achievement not only highlighted Son’s immediate impact but also marked a new chapter in MLS history, as LAFC became the fastest club to reach this landmark. Despite the celebratory nature of the goal, the match ended in a tense draw after Colorado’s Darren Yapi and Paxten Aaronson scored in the second half, only for Andrew Moran to equalize in stoppage time .

A Young Fan’s Missed Opportunity

After the final whistle, 20-year-old Colorado forward Darren Yapi revealed a heartfelt moment that slipped away. He had hoped to swap jerseys with Son Heung-min, a player he deeply admires, but missed the chance. When asked if anyone had exchanged jerseys with Son, Yapi responded, I’m not sure. He left really quickly. I tried to find him, but he was already gone . This small yet poignant moment resonated with fans worldwide, echoing the universal dream of young athletes to connect with their idols. Yapi, a product of the Colorado Rapids academy and a former U.S. youth international, has been steadily building his career since his professional debut in 2021. His admiration for Son reflects a broader trend in American soccer, where rising stars look up to global icons not just for skill, but for professionalism and humility. The fact that Son, known for his disciplined post-match routines, left the field swiftly underscores his focus, but also highlights how fleeting such iconic moments can be .

The Culture of Jersey Swaps in Global Football

Jersey exchanges are more than just a tradition they are symbolic gestures of respect and admiration in football. From Mason Mount of Chelsea swapping with Son in 2020 to amateur players cherishing the moment they receive a jersey from a star, these acts carry deep emotional weight . In the U.S., where soccer culture is still evolving, such moments are especially significant. For many young American players, meeting and exchanging jerseys with legends like Son represents validation and inspiration. However, not all swaps go as planned. Just like Yapi’s missed chance, there are countless stories of players and fans who came close but couldn’t complete the exchange. This unpredictability adds to the charm of the ritual. In Korea, fans often view jersey swaps as sacred, especially when involving national icons like Son. Videos of Son exchanging jerseys with players from lower divisions or even youth teams have gone viral, showing his accessibility and respect for the game at all levels .

Son’s Ripple Effect on LAFC and MLS

Since joining LAFC in August 2025, Son Heung-min has transformed the club’s global profile. His arrival triggered a surge in jersey sales, with LAFC merchandise becoming the top-selling sports item across all leagues in the U.S., surpassing even NBA and NFL products . Social media following for the club skyrocketed, and stadium attendance reached record highs, with over 59,000 fans attending a single match the highest in San Jose’s home game history . Beyond numbers, Son’s influence is cultural. He has redefined what it means to be a professional athlete in MLS, emphasizing discipline, fan engagement, and consistent performance. His post-match routine of thanking supporters before leaving the pitch has become a model for teammates. Even his absence from jersey swaps, while disappointing to some, reflects his commitment to team protocols and personal focus. As LAFC heads into the playoffs as the Western Conference’s 3rd seed, Son’s legacy is no longer just about goals it’s about shaping a new era for American soccer .