US President Donald Trump repeatedly told players from Spain and Argentina 'You are a champ' and 'Amazing player' as he handed out medals following the World Cup final, according to professional lip reader Nicola Hickling of LipReader Ltd, working on behalf of Covers.com. The final ended in chaos with a punch-up between players moments after the final whistle.
Trump's Role in the Ceremony
Trump joined FIFA president Gianni Infantino on the podium after Spain secured a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. He also participated alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, whose nations co-hosted the tournament. Trump presented Spain captain Rodri with the World Cup trophy and lingered on stage as Rodri lifted it.
Before the trophy presentation, Trump greeted every player on stage, shaking hands, presenting medals, and exchanging words with members of both teams. Hickling confirmed that the president repeated the same encouraging phrase throughout the ceremony: 'You are a champ' and 'Amazing player.'
Chaotic Final and Crowd Reaction
The match saw Spain win their second World Cup title thanks to Ferran Torres' decisive goal in the second period of extra time, following a tense 100-minute goalless period. Argentina, aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the men's World Cup, struggled to create chances. Their task became harder after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late in normal time.
Trump was loudly booed and jeered by supporters as he walked onto the pitch with Infantino. Despite the negative reaction, he remained prominently positioned throughout the ceremony.
Trump's Presence and Future Ambitions
Trump watched the match from a luxury suite with first lady Melania Trump and Infantino, arriving at the stadium aboard Marine One. TV cameras showed him admiring the World Cup trophy before the post-match presentation. This was his first attendance at a World Cup match during the tournament. Trump has previously expressed his ambition to see the United States host another World Cup in the future.
