The loneliness of the handball goalpost is a familiar feeling for veteran goalkeeper Lee Chang-woo. But on , that solitude was punctuated by a historic moment: Lee secured his 2,000th career save during a Shinhan SOL Bank 25-26 Handball H League Men’s 3rd round match against Sangmu Phoenix at SK Hawks Arena in Cheongju.
Lee Chang-woo, playing for Incheon City Corporation, achieved the milestone, a first in the history of the men’s division. The moment itself unfolded with a touch of drama. Early in the game, Lee was struck twice in the face by powerful shots from younger players, making what he described as “not-so-pleasant” saves. He immediately comforted his teammates after accidentally hitting a senior player in the face during play, demonstrating a sportsmanship that has defined his long career.
With Incheon leading 7-4, Lee completed his 2,000th save by blocking a mid-range shot from Cha Hye-sung. But the story didn’t end there. Immediately after the block, Lee scooped up the loose ball and launched a long shot at the unguarded Sangmu Phoenix goal. The ball found the net, completing the record-breaking moment with a self-congratulatory goal. It was a rare and fitting culmination of years of dedication.
“It seems to be proof that I have been working hard because it has a symbolic meaning of No. 1 as a male goalkeeper,” Lee calmly stated, reflecting on the achievement. He acknowledged the significance of the number, but emphasized the cumulative effort behind it. “It was a moment where pride and satisfaction coexist, but I felt more that it was the result of accumulating a long time than a brilliant emotion.”
Lee’s journey to 2,000 saves hasn’t been a straightforward one. He noted that a full-time player might reach this milestone in seven to eight years, but his own path was slower, requiring him to share playing time throughout his career. This makes the accomplishment all the more remarkable, a testament to his consistency and longevity.
Born on , Lee Chang-woo, also known as Lee Chang-Wu, has represented South Korea on the international stage, competing in both the and Summer Olympics. He stands at 187 cm (6 ft 2 in) tall and has been a consistent presence for the national team.
Lee’s career extends beyond the Olympics. He was part of the South Korean team that won a medal at the Asian Championship in . His experience and leadership are highly valued within the Korean handball community.
While his net worth is estimated at $5 million, according to some sources, the focus remains on his contribution to the sport. Lee’s achievement is not just a personal milestone, but a significant moment for South Korean handball, inspiring future generations of goalkeepers.
The image of Lee Chang-woo in front of the goal, often a solitary figure, now carries the weight of history. He has endured the loneliness, the physical challenges, and the shared playing time, ultimately reaching a point where his dedication has been unequivocally recognized. The 2,000 saves represent more than just a number. they symbolize a career built on hard work, resilience, and a deep passion for the game.
Lee Chang-woo’s story is a reminder that success in sports often comes not from fleeting moments of brilliance, but from the consistent accumulation of effort over time. His self-congratulatory goal, a fitting end to a historic save, is a testament to a career well-played and a record that may stand for many years to come.
