Austria's JJ has emerged victorious in the Eurovision Song Contest held in Basel, Switzerland, with a stunning last-minute win over Israel. The 24-year-old counter-tenor, representing Austria with his song "Wasted Love," secured 436 points, an electrifying electro-ballad that resonated deeply with audiences. JJ, who often performs at the Vienna State Opera, expressed gratitude for the experience and emphasized love as a universal force upon receiving the glass microphone trophy.
Austria Triumphs at Eurovision 2025 in Basel, UK Places 19th
Austria Triumphs at Eurovision 2025 in Basel, UK Places 19th
Austrian singer JJ captures the Eurovision title with a heartfelt performance, while the UK's entry finishes low on the leaderboard for the second consecutive year.
The runner-up, Israel's Yuval Raphael, amassed 357 points with her poignant ballad "New Day Will Rise," significantly influenced by her personal experiences as a survivor of recent conflicts. Controversy surrounded Israel's participation, leading to protests outside the contest venue, although these did not seem to impact Raphael's performance.
Estonia's Tommy Cash claimed third place with "Espresso Macchiato," while the UK's girl group Remember Monday faced disappointment, finishing 19th with only 88 points. This continued a trend for the UK, which received no points from the public for the second year in a row, raising questions about the strategy of their entries.
While the gala featured flashy performances reflecting Europe's diverse cultural landscape—ranging from Finland's provocative act to poignant tributes about migration and loss—the competition this year was noted for its chaotic voting process. With 13 finalists receiving maximum points from juries, the tension remained palpable until the final public votes were tallied.
Despite hopes for a special appearance by Celine Dion, who won Eurovision in 1988 for Switzerland, fans were left disappointed when she did not attend. As the contest concluded, it was Austria who claimed the spotlight, celebrating their third victory in Eurovision history.
Estonia's Tommy Cash claimed third place with "Espresso Macchiato," while the UK's girl group Remember Monday faced disappointment, finishing 19th with only 88 points. This continued a trend for the UK, which received no points from the public for the second year in a row, raising questions about the strategy of their entries.
While the gala featured flashy performances reflecting Europe's diverse cultural landscape—ranging from Finland's provocative act to poignant tributes about migration and loss—the competition this year was noted for its chaotic voting process. With 13 finalists receiving maximum points from juries, the tension remained palpable until the final public votes were tallied.
Despite hopes for a special appearance by Celine Dion, who won Eurovision in 1988 for Switzerland, fans were left disappointed when she did not attend. As the contest concluded, it was Austria who claimed the spotlight, celebrating their third victory in Eurovision history.
