Basel, Switzerland – Austria claimed its third Eurovision Song Contest victory on Saturday night, as Austrian-Filipino singer JJ delivered a powerhouse performance of “Wasted Love”, captivating Europe with an operatic pop anthem that fused classical depth with raw emotional storytelling.

The grand final, hosted in the vibrant Swiss city of Basel, saw JJ’s theatrical and shipwreck-themed staging earn him widespread acclaim and the continent’s vote of confidence—marking Austria’s first win since Conchita Wurst’s unforgettable triumph in 2014.

JJ, a classically trained vocalist, stood out not just for his vocal range but for the authenticity of his lyrics, which he said were drawn from a deeply personal place. “I had a pretty tough year,” he told international media before the final. “I wanted to write about my experience with wasted, unreciprocated love. To see that story resonate with so many people—it’s humbling.”

The ballad’s resonance proved undeniable, pushing Austria past strong contenders to secure the top spot. Israel’s Yuval Raphael took second place with “New Day Will Rise”—a stirring song performed with emotional weight given her personal experience as a survivor of the October 7 Hamas attacks. Estonia followed in third, while San Marino ended the night in last place.

The 2025 edition of Eurovision, as always, was a dazzling display of Europe’s creative spirit, eclectic fashion, and musical diversity. From Latvia’s ethno-pop ensemble blending folklore with modern rhythms, to Ukraine’s glam rock spectacle and Albania’s haunting duet “Zjerm,” the night was as varied as it was unforgettable.

Yet the competition didn’t pass without controversy. While Eurovision brands itself as an apolitical celebration of music and culture, geopolitical tensions were palpable. Russia and Belarus remain barred from participation following the war in Ukraine, and this year, Israel’s inclusion drew sharp criticism from sections of the fanbase over the ongoing Gaza conflict.

In a scene that underscored these divides, Raphael performed under bright lights in front of an arena where Palestinian flags waved—allowed this year after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) revised flag rules. Following her performance, two individuals attempted to storm the stage, throwing paint and briefly disrupting the event. The EBU confirmed that a crew member was hit but not injured.

A rumored appearance by legendary Eurovision alum Celine Dion, who famously won for Switzerland in 1988, ultimately did not take place—though her legacy was felt throughout the evening.

For JJ, the win is both a personal milestone and a national moment of pride. As he clutched the trophy backstage, he reflected on what it meant: “If I win, I’ll probably cry and call my family,” he had said earlier. And true to his word, emotion overtook the singer as he celebrated a moment years in the making.

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By WafricNews Entertainment Desk.