Choi Jeong's candid reflections after watching from the stands for the first time in 22 seasons: "I could hear the fans' sighs clearly, which made me realize I need to perform even better"

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Choi Jeong (39), a "franchise star" of the SSG Landers who ranks first in KBO League career home runs with 538, renewed his resolve while watching the final home game from the stands rather than on the field. Having sat in the spectator seats to watch a game for the first time in his 22 professional seasons, he directly felt the fans' disappointment and sighs, sharing that it naturally led him to reflect that "I must do better."

Choi Jeong attended the final home game of the 2026 KBO League against the Samsung Lions at Incheon SSG Landers Field on the 9th. After deciding in July to undergo hip surgery due to femoroacetabular impingement syndrome and receiving the procedure in Colorado, USA, in August, he has been commuting to his home stadium to focus on rehabilitation. He appeared at the ballpark in casual attire with his family. Visiting the dugout after the game ended to meet the players, Choi Jeong met with reporters with a bright expression, sharing updates on his condition and his impressions of watching the game.

For Choi Jeong, who has guarded only the field and the dugout for 22 seasons since being drafted in the first round in 2005 through 2026, watching from the stands was a first in his baseball career. He reflected, "It was my first time watching baseball from the spectator seats after turning pro in 22 seasons, so I honestly felt really awkward," but added, "However, the fans' cheers reached me with much more vitality than when heard from the field or the dugout."

He continued, "Especially when I failed to hit during a scoring opportunity, the disappointment and sighs erupting from the stands were incredibly loud. The moment I directly heard that, it naturally sparked a reflection and thought that 'I really need to play (baseball) better,'" sincerely expressing his unique feelings.

He did not hide his regret for being unable to share the second half of the season with the team due to injury. Choi Jeong stated, "It was heavy on my heart and I felt sorry for not being able to run on the field with my teammates during a crucial period," but added, "Thanks to the players maintaining their focus until the end and lifting the team's atmosphere, we managed to hold on. I am truly grateful to my hardworking teammates and the veteran players."

Preparations for his return, which fans most desire, are progressing smoothly. Choi Jeong is currently undergoing a step-by-step rehabilitation program in the treatment room and weight room at his home stadium. He said, "The surgery ended very successfully, and rehabilitation is going well. Recovery is fast, so I plan to start rotational exercises soon," emphasizing, "The pain in the area that was uncomfortable before the surgery has also subsided, so the prognosis is good. By the time of the 2027 season spring camp, I will be able to join with 100% normal condition."

When asked about his top priority goal for next season, he immediately chose "completing the full season" without hesitation. Choi Jeong noted, "After failing to complete a full season due to injury for two consecutive years, new challenges have arisen," and resolved, "Rather than specific statistical desires, my most important first goal for next season is to 'complete' every game healthily and without injury from the opening game to the final game of the season."

Choi Jeong, the "home run champion," who felt the fans' gaze and sighs with his whole body from the closest possible seat for the first time in 22 seasons. His focus is already moving powerfully toward the 2027 season where he will paint a picture of a perfect comeback.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original