Austrian artist JJ, known for his engaging performance at the Vienna State Opera, triumphed at the Eurovision Song Contest held in Basel, Switzerland, revealing his captivating electro-ballad "Wasted Love," as he clinched victory with a score of 436 points. The 24-year-old counter-tenor expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you so much for making my dreams come true. Love is the strongest force in the world, let's spread more love."
In a dramatic finish, JJ eclipsed Israel's Yuval Raphael who scored 357 points for their ballad "New Day Will Rise," and Estonia's Tommy Cash who secured third with 356 points. The UK's group Remember Monday found themselves in 19th place with just 88 points, facing a second year in a row with a "zero" score from public votes.
As the contest unfolded, protests surrounded Israel's participation, and an incident occurred where protestors attempted to invade the stage. Despite this, Yuval delivered a memorable performance that held its ground against the odds.
The event celebrated not just music but also a vibrant mix of styles and stories with performances tackling themes from love to migration. JJ’s exciting performance, set against a black-and-white backdrop, showcased his emotional depth, making “Wasted Love” one of the standout tracks of the night.
Amid the glitter and glamour, thrilling acts like Finland's Erika Vikman and Estonia's Tommy Cash added humor and spice to the competition. However, amidst the cheers, fans were left disappointed by the absence of Canadian legend Céline Dion, who was rumored to attend but ultimately did not appear.
With the ecstasy of victory and the disappointment of defeat, Eurovision 2025 delivered yet another unforgettable edition, reminding viewers of the unique power of music to connect and inspire across borders.
