An Austrian-Filipino opera singer raised in Dubai has won the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, capturing global attention with his powerful performance of the operatic ballad “Wasted Love.” Performing under the stage name JJ, Johannes Pietsch secured victory with 436 points, making him a standout star at the Grand Final held in Basel, Switzerland.
His performance, set in a dramatic, dimly lit stage with strobe lights, captivated the audience and secured the top spot through a combination of jury votes and a decisive public vote. Israel’s Yuval Raphael finished second with 357 points, while Estonia claimed third place with 356 points.
In a statement, Warner Music, JJ’s record label, celebrated his achievement. “JJ’s incredible talent, combined with his innovative sound, has truly resonated with audiences across Europe and beyond, attracting new fans with every performance,” said Doreen Schimk and Fabian Drebes, co-presidents of Warner Music Central Europe. “We are proud to be part of JJ’s journey.”
While the competition showcased a diverse range of acts, including Sweden’s accordion-led comedy song and Italy’s torch ballad, it also faced controversies, including protests against Israel’s participation amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
For JJ, the night marked the pinnacle of a journey that began in Dubai and led him to Europe’s biggest musical stage, earning him not just the Eurovision trophy but a global following.
