An interaction – or lack thereof – between at least one Argentina soccer star and United States President Donald Trump during the medal ceremony after the World Cup final has ignited speculation as to whether it was a deliberate political statement.
Argentina defender Cristian Romero appeared to skip shaking hands with Trump after receiving his second-place medal from FIFA president Gianni Infantino following Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup Final on Sunday, July 19. Based on the FOX broadcast, Romero was seen shaking hands with every other dignitary that was on stage and in the camera shot after walking past Trump during the post-match festivities at MetLife Stadium.
It's still not confirmed if Romero, who also plays for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, intended to not shake Trump's hand or if it was simply an oversight. Romero has not yet commented on the situation, though he was seen shaking hands with Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Romero's Argentina teammate, Lisandro Martinez, may have also skipped shaking hands with Trump, according to multiple reports.
Trump attended the World Cup final and later awarded medals and the World Cup trophy to Spain after its victory. He handed the trophy to Spain captain Rodri along with Infantino, though Trump was booed by the crowd upon entering the field.
After shaking hands with Trump, Rodri waited for him to clear the stage with Infantino. Instead, Trump headed toward the right side of the stage, opposite the direction Infantino went. The FIFA president then crossed in front of the Spain squad, speaking to Trump and gesturing for him to move.
As Spain lifted the trophy and confetti began to fill the air, Trump stayed near the Spanish midfielder before moving to his left and continuing the conversation with the FIFA president.
Prior to the start of the World Cup final, during a pre-recorded interview with FOX, Trump praised Argentina star Lionel Messi and his performance to propel Argentina into the championship match against Spain.
Source: USA Today
