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Lionel Messi avoids eye contact with Donald Trump during medal ceremony

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 20, 2026, 7:50 PM

Last updated Jul 20, 2026

Lionel Messi avoids eye contact with Donald Trump during medal ceremony

Summary

Lionel Messi's interaction with President Donald Trump at the World Cup medal ceremony on July 19 is drawing scrutiny. After Argentina lost to Spain 1-0 in the final, Messi, visibly emotional, accepted his silver medal without making eye contact with Trump and attempted to walk away quickly. Observers have interpreted this moment in various ways, with some seeing it as a political statement, while others suggest it reflects his disappointment after the defeat. Messi did not comment on the incident but later acknowledged Spain as the better team during post-match remarks, thanking his teammates and fans. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also defended Messi’s legacy and contributions to the game.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Messi collected a silver medal after Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain.
•He appeared emotional and avoided eye contact with Trump during the ceremony.
•Other Argentine players, including Cristian Romero, also bypassed Trump.
•Spain controlled the final match, with a goal from Ferran Torres in extra time.
•Messi and Scaloni addressed the loss in post-match comments.

Latest Updates

7:50 PMYahoo Sports — Lionel Messi Accused Of Showing ‘Lack Of Respect’ To Donald Trump

What they're saying

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Lionel Messi’s brief interaction with President Donald Trump is being dissected after the devastated soccer icon appeared eager to move The Lionel Messi Accused Of Showing ‘Lack Of Respect’ To Donald Trump first appeared on The Blast
— Yahoo Sports

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