Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League triumph over Arsenal sparked plenty of conversation off the pitch, with several players drawing attention for wearing protective ski-style goggles during their title celebrations.
PSG retained their European crown on Saturday night after edging Arsenal 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Budapest.
Amid the jubilant scenes, stars such as Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué were spotted sporting the unusual eyewear, leaving many fans wondering about its purpose.
While some supporters speculated that the goggles were simply a fashion statement, reports from French media suggested otherwise.
The protective eyewear is widely used during championship celebrations to shield players’ eyes from champagne spray, which can cause irritation. It also provides protection from flying corks that can be launched at high speed when bottles are opened.
The custom is said to have originated in American sports. Former baseball player Bobby Ojeda is credited with popularising the idea when he wore swimming goggles during celebrations after the New York Mets won the 1986 World Series.
Since then, the practice has spread to various sports, including the NBA, women’s football and Major League Soccer.
Beyond safety concerns, the goggles appeared to have a promotional element.
Each pair prominently displayed the logo of one of PSG’s official sponsors, prompting suggestions that the eyewear formed part of a broader marketing strategy during one of football’s biggest global showcases.
The goggles ultimately became one of the standout symbols of PSG’s celebrations, with several players continuing to wear them during post-match media duties and even on the team’s journey back to their hotel after lifting the trophy.
