The pre-match ceremony for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final witnessed a spectacular crossover of sports and high fashion at the New York-New Jersey Stadium. Before Argentina and Spain kicked off their battle for the title, Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz took centre stage to officially present the World Cup trophy.
Carlos Alcaraz at FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
Taking a quick break from his wrist injury rehabilitation, a stylish Alcaraz walked out onto the pitch accompanied by South Korean actress and Squid Game star Jung Ho-yeon. Together, the dynamic duo opened a bespoke, handcrafted Louis Vuitton trunk to unveil the glittering 18-karat gold trophy to the roaring crowd of 82,000 fans. As a passionate football fan who regularly supports the Spanish national team, Alcaraz was visibly thrilled to be part of the historic pre-match tradition, seamlessly blending the worlds of tennis, entertainment, and global football.
Carlitos ❤️❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/VL28RyIW2s
— f #7inMelbourne (@fvaeey) July 19, 2026
Carlos brought out the trophy ahead of the World Cup final ‼️🏆🇪🇸 @carlosalcaraz #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/Rmkbcd26AU
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 19, 2026
Novak Djokovic Roots For ‘Messi And Argentina’
He is not the only tennis royalty soaking in the atmosphere today. Novak Djokovic is also in the stands watching the drama unfold. Having previously interviewed Lionel Messi ahead of the tournament, the 24-time Grand Slam champion made it clear he is actively supporting the Argentine captain’s quest for back-to-back titles.
Novak Djokovic has arrived at the World Cup final. ⚽️ 🏆
Djokovic: “I’m rooting for Messi and Argentina.”
🇷🇸🇦🇷pic.twitter.com/Sm6nsgwzJx
— Danny (@DjokovicFan_) July 19, 2026
Argentina vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
As for the action on the pitch, the final is currently paused for halftime with the score locked at a tense 0-0. It has been a cagey and physical first 45 minutes, highlighted by missed chances from Spain’s 19-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal and a yellow card for Argentina’s Lisandro Martínez. With both teams fighting fiercely for dominance, the ultimate crown is still waiting to be claimed in the second half.
