Over the years, my job covering Asian sport has sometimes brought smiles of sympathy from counterparts in other continents. Take soccer: South America sees itself as a passionate hotbed, Europe attracts the best-quality players, while Africa has the raw talent. And Asia? The cultures are seen as fascinating, but the players have never been lauded for their talent.
Until now. South Korea's Son Heung-min has been widely acclaimed as one of the most exciting and explosive players in world soccer, challenging the traditional stereotype of Asian soccer players as hardworking, energetic and team-spirited, but lacking in flair and creativity.