Michael Owen on Being World-Class
Michael Owen is widely regarded as one of the greatest English strikers of his generation and achieved the rare honor of becoming the last British winner of the Ballon d’Or in 2001. His career spanned top clubs including Liverpool, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Stoke City, as well as representing England at five major international tournaments.
Owen rose through Liverpool's youth ranks, making his Premier League debut in 1997 and becoming the club's youngest-ever goalscorer at just 17 years old. Known for his rapid pace and clinical finishing, he was the Premier League's joint top scorer for two consecutive seasons, winning the Golden Boot in 1998 and 1999. He also led Liverpool to a historic treble victory in 2001, securing the UEFA Cup, FA Cup, and Football League Cup, contributing crucial goals including two late winners in the FA Cup final.
Internationally, Owen made a significant impact in the 1998 World Cup, notably scoring a memorable solo goal against Argentina in the round of 16, cementing his reputation as England’s most feared forward of his era. His consistent scoring helped England qualify for four major tournaments, with important goals and assists during qualification phases. Unfortunately, injuries, especially recurring hamstring issues, limited the longevity of his peak performance.
Despite setbacks, Owen maintained a prolific scoring record at the club and international levels and was recognized by football legends such as Pelé, who included him in the FIFA 100 list of the world’s greatest living players in 2004.
Post-retirement, Owen transitioned into racehorse breeding and sports punditry but remains celebrated for his combination of natural talent, work ethic, and ability to excel at the highest levels during his peak years between the late 1990s and early 2000s.
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