The Cuban boxer Yordenis Ugás sparked a heated debate on social media after sharing a reflection on the differences between life in Europe and the United States.
In a post shared on his Instagram account, the former world champion wrote: “In Europe, people work to live. In the United States, people live to work.”
Although he clarified that his words do not describe his personal situation, as he has carried the pressure of being the best in boxing since he was six years old, Ugás explained that his intention was to open a exchange of ideas.
"I love America, and may God bless America. There is no other country in history that has granted so much power and prosperity to the Cuban community as this one. However, I do believe that many people in Europe live more peacefully. In any case, happiness is personal. Share your thoughts, and let's discuss them," wrote the boxer.
Her post received dozens of comments from followers who shared experiences from various countries. Some agreed that life in Europe is more relaxed, with more room for leisure and less focus on consumption.
A user residing in Spain stated: “Here, you spend what you have, and even when you don't have anything you don't stay at home. There are free concerts, exhibitions, and theater at affordable prices. In short, this is life”. Another Cuban in Italy added that peace and leisure time are greater on the Old Continent, although income is often lower than in the United States.
Others defended the American way of life, emphasizing the opportunities for progress and economic dynamism. "In Europe, there is no advancement; the United States is for those who want to progress... each person chooses, I love the USA.", wrote a follower.
A user in Miami commented: “Here in the United States, the more you work, the more you earn, and that gives you the opportunity to grow. My life depends on my effort, and I like that.”
Cultural and economic differences were also highlighted. Several internet users noted that Mediterranean countries are more appealing to Cubans, while in Northern Europe, although salaries are high, the climate and cultural distance create barriers.
Others, on the other hand, highlighted the labor benefits in the United States, such as health insurance, paid holidays, and higher earnings compared to Europe.
The exchange highlighted how the migration experience shapes the perception of quality of life. For some, the tranquility of Europe represents the key to happiness; for others, the competitiveness and opportunities in the United States justify the sacrifice.
Ugás, for his part, made it clear that he did not intend to provide absolute answers, but rather to invite a debate that closely affects thousands of Cubans spread across both continents.
A recurring debate among Cubans
Ugás's reflection is part of a discussion that is not new among Cubans inside and outside the Island: is the quality of life better in Europe or in the United States?
In recent months, this debate has gained momentum due to the increasing number of Cuban Americans considering moving to the Old Continent, particularly to Spain and Italy.
In May, CiberCuba gathered testimonies from Cubans in Spain who responded to those criticizing life in Europe from the United States, highlighting the advantages of a more relaxed lifestyle with less consumer pressure.
This is joined by the cases of Cuban Americans seeking to obtain Spanish citizenship as a means to ensure mobility and stability in an uncertain political context in the U.S., marked by Donald Trump's policies towards immigrants.
There are many testimonies from migrants who have publicly contrasted both experiences. A Cuban residing in Italy criticized the American lifestyle and defended the European tranquility, while from Spain and other countries, reflections on the differences between "living to work" and "working to live" are multiplying.
The phenomenon has also been detected in Miami, where part of the Latino community is beginning to look towards Spain as a potential migration destination, driven by both economic reasons and political uncertainty in the United States.
In this context, Ugás's words serve as a catalyst that rekindles a debate with deep roots in the Cuban diaspora and ultimately reflects the tensions between aspirations for economic progress and the pursuit of a more balanced life.
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