PSG players sparked curiosity during their UEFA Champions League title celebrations after several stars were seen wearing protective ski-style goggles following their victory over Arsenal in the final.
PSG secured back-to-back European crowns on Saturday night, defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Budapest. As celebrations erupted, players including Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué were photographed wearing the distinctive eyewear, prompting widespread discussion among fans on social media.
Many supporters questioned why the players had opted for ski goggles despite the warm conditions. However, the eyewear was not chosen for fashion purposes.
According to reports from French media, the goggles are commonly used during championship celebrations to protect players from champagne spray. The liquid can irritate the eyes, while the goggles also offer protection against flying corks that may be released with considerable force during celebrations.
The tradition has its roots in American sports. It is believed to have started in baseball when former player Bobby Ojeda wore swimming goggles during the celebration of the 1986 World Series title won by the New York Mets. The practice later spread across several sports, including the National Basketball Association, women’s football and Major League Soccer.
The goggles worn by PSG players also appeared to serve a commercial purpose. All of the eyewear featured the logo of one of the club’s official sponsors, leading some observers to view them as part of a wider marketing campaign during one of football’s most-watched events.
The goggles quickly became one of the defining images of PSG’s celebrations, with several players continuing to wear them during post-match interviews and even during the team’s return to their hotel after lifting the trophy.