Athletic Bilbao won the Copa del Rey after a 40-year break on Saturday evening at the Estadio Olímpico de Sevilla.
The secret behind their triumph lies in the motto “A lo bajini,” a phrase that has become associated with the team’s spirit this season.
Introduced by forward Iñaki Williams on his social media platform last January, “A lo bajini” translates to “doing things quietly.” This philosophy has resonated with the team and their supporters, fostering a culture of humility, hard work, and quiet determination.
Williams, who played a pivotal role in the team’s success, explained the origins of the motto. “It came out as something natural on social networks, I started saying it and retweeting it. People liked it and it has caught on. Doing it in a low key way is having an impact,” he said.
The team’s decision to keep a low profile and not discuss a potential Copa del Rey final has been instrumental in their journey. This strategy served as a reminder of their past losses, fueling their determination to succeed.
Despite not participating in the final match or the penalty shootout, Williams was a standout figure in the competition. His post-match celebrations, which included him carrying a giant speaker and wearing a commemorative champions’ shirt, were a testament to his joy and relief.
In a touching moment, Williams shared an emotional embrace with his younger brother Nico on the field, a scene that moved many fans. Staying true to his motto, Williams donned a retro Athletic Club shirt with the number 9 and “A lo bajini” printed on it.
In a further nod to the philosophy, Williams unveiled a new cap on his social media platforms this morning, continuing to spread the message of quiet determination.