Ivan Perišić named Croatia’s most passionate player of 2025

Ivan Perišić and Luka Modrić (Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

Croatia international Ivan Perišić has been voted the winner of the “Pokaži srce” (Show Your Heart) award for 2025,  honouring the most passionate Croatian national team player of the year.

The annual award, organised by Tportal and PSK, recognises the player who best embodies dedication, energy and heart while wearing the Croatian shirt. Fans voted overwhelmingly for Perišić, who succeeds last year’s winner, captain Luka Modrić.

The award was presented to Perišić by Modrić on the eve of Croatia’s World Cup qualifier against the Faroe Islands in Rijeka, a match where a single point would secure Croatia’s spot at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

Receiving the award, Perišić expressed gratitude for the recognition:

“This means a lot, especially because it comes from the fans. Everyone knows how much Croatia and this shirt mean to me. I live and work for it every day. As long as I can, I’ll give everything to help Croatia reach big tournaments and achieve great results, as we have in recent years. Success comes from team spirit and fighting for each other – that’s what we, the older players, try to pass on to the younger ones.”

The “Pokaži srce” statue, made entirely from Vrsine stone and designed by academic painter Vera Mekinić, symbolises the dedication and spirit each winner brings to the national team.

Alongside the trophy, Perišić also received a €10,000 humanitarian donation, which will be given to a non-profit organisation of his choice to support those in need.

(Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

The cheque was presented by PSK General Director Gabril Makki, who praised Croatian players for their contribution both on and off the field.

“Our players bring us joy through their performances, but they also promote values of social responsibility through the ‘Show Your Heart’ project,” Makki said.

Perišić, who remains an active member of the national team, is one of Croatia’s most decorated players. The Faroe Islands match will mark his 149th appearance for Croatia. With 37 goals, he sits second only to Davor Šuker (45) on the all-time scoring list.

Known for his relentless work ethic and courage, Perišić has represented Croatia even while injured, often playing through pain and never holding back when called to the national team.

The “Show Your Heart” project was launched in March 2022 by PSK in collaboration with the Croatian Football Federation (HNS), the Institute for Sports Medicine and Health Promotion, and several medical partners.

The initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of sports health and preventive care. Through donations exceeding half a million euros, PSK has organised nationwide campaigns offering free medical check-ups for athletes and training sessions in first aid and resuscitation – essential skills that can save lives.

“It’s not always easy to show heart,  but it’s important to do so, both when it hurts and when it loves,” said Božo Mekinić, PSK Brand & Sponsorship Manager. “Perišić’s career and comeback from serious injury show what true passion and resilience look like.”

(Photo: Drago Sopta/HNS)

Dr Tomislav Madžar, chief coordinator of the campaign, highlighted the broader impact of the project:

“Over the past few years, we’ve examined more than 5,000 young athletes, trained over 800 coaches and donated life-saving equipment to clubs across Croatia. Prevention saves lives, and our national players are the best role models for young people.”