Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Georgia’s Rising Star in Champions League Final

Tbilisi, Georgia — Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the 24-year-old winger for Paris Saint-Germain, will showcase his talent in the Champions League final against Inter on June 10, 2025. Born in the small town of Tsalenjikha, nestled in the Caucasus mountains, Kvaratskhelia’s journey from a local playground to Europe’s biggest stage is marked by unique challenges and remarkable ingenuity.

As a child, Khvicha spent countless hours perfecting his football skills in his backyard, where a metal gate served as an impromptu goal. His father, Badri, a former professional player, often lamented how the gate had punctured many of his footballs. Innovations followed; Badri replaced the spikes on the gate with apples, creating a more forgiving training environment for his son.

“There would never be grass in the yard because Khvicha played all day,” Badri said. “It was clear early on that he had something special.” His family’s deep roots in the Mingrelian culture of western Georgia shaped his character, fostering resilience and creativity.

Despite Tsalenjikha’s small population of roughly 25,000, the town has significantly influenced Georgian history. “People from Samegrelo are smart and very creative,” Badri added. Kvaratskhelia’s rise to fame mirrors that remarkable tide of ambition and talent brewing in his hometown.

The young winger’s first big break came at the Dinamo Tbilisi academy, where scout Temur Ugrekhelidze discovered him during a local tournament. Ugrekhelidze remembers Kvaratskhelia’s courage on the field. “Whenever he dribbled, he dribbled forward. He failed but kept going,” he remarked.

Living in Tbilisi while attending the academy proved pivotal for Kvaratskhelia. Gaining access to training facilities allowed him to develop his skills further. By 2016, he was achieving success in international competitions, marking him as a standout talent in youth tournaments. “He was the revelation of the tournament,” his coach noted.

His family faced hardships during his teenage years, including financial struggles, but Kvaratskhelia’s humble nature shone through. Even as he excelled, he often saved money to support his siblings rather than spend it on himself.

Recognizing his unexpected path to professional football, Kvaratskhelia made his senior team debut for Dinamo Tbilisi shortly after his breakthrough. “He opened doors for everyone,” said teammate Raul Baratelia, highlighting how Kvaratskhelia’s success inspired a new generation of Georgian players.

With notable stints at Napoli, where he made a name for himself in Serie A, Kvaratskhelia’s return to PSG has only magnified his influence. As he prepares for the Champions League final, he embodies hope not just for his family but for a nation eager for success on the global stage.

As the match progresses, Badri will support Khvicha from the stands, even retreating to the family box during emotional moments. Reflecting on his son’s remarkable journey, he remarked, “He is not just playing for himself but representing Georgia.”