Jude Bellingham celebrates 'best night of my life' in Real Madrid's Champions League final triumph
Jude Bellingham's parents arrived early at Wembley Stadium.
When your son is about to complete a dream season, you don't want to miss a thing.
In his first Champions League final on Saturday, the Real Madrid star received a standing ovation from the Spanish team's fans when he was subbed off late in the 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham's former club.
"I can't have dreamed it much better than this," Bellingham told TNT Sports on the field moments after the final whistle.
The 20-year-old attacking midfielder got emotional talking about his parents Denise and Mark and their commitment to his career, recalling them "doing trips at 11, 12 at night" to take him to and from soccer games and practices.
"I was alright until I saw my mum and dad's face there," he said.
Madrid fans serenaded Bellingham with a version of "Hey Jude." He is becoming the face of the team even as reports indicate France star Kylian Mbappé is on his way to the Bernabeu next season.
Bellingham was the La Liga player of the season and his emergence is good timing for England, as well, as it heads into the European Championship two weeks from now.
The England star played three seasons at Dortmund and transferred to Madrid last summer for a fee that could reach $139 million.
He credited veterans Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos — multiple Champions League winners — with giving him a boost of confidence.
"They were a big part of my feeling before the game to be fair," Bellingham said. "When I was alone in my room I was thinking to myself and not as confident but you come down to dinner and they are playing cards, chatting, looking relaxed. Then you start to feel relaxed and settle into it. Champions of Europe, can't get any better than that."
"They always said to me to enjoy the first one."
Bellingham passed up a shot early in the second half on Saturday and threatened to score in the 78th from close range but a defender tipped his shot wide.
No worries, it's safe to say he'll have more opportunities on the biggest stages.
"I can't put it into words — best night of my life."
Reporting by The Associated Press.
