Argentina national team defender Cristian Romero has become a hot topic on social media after receiving a shocking snub after the World Cup medal ceremony.
The Tottenham centre-back shook hands with US President Donald Trump, who was on stage to hand him the honours, before walking right past him.
Cristian Romero despises Donald Trump
The virus incident occurred as the final teams were lining up in front of dignitaries to receive their tournament medals.
As Romero approached the line of officials, he deliberately avoided the American president and continued down the stage without making eye contact.
Footage of the cruel exchange spread across social media platforms.
The World Cup was controversial because of Donald Trump.
Behind this disdain is a deep dissatisfaction with political interference throughout the Games.
Donald Trump’s strong political influence cast a long shadow over the event, with geopolitical tensions firmly taking center stage.
Critics noted that the treatment of the Iranian national team during its tour to North America was highly controversial, with many feeling it went against the tournament’s spirit of neutrality.
They were initially denied visas, then allowed into the country only on the day of the game, set up base camp in Mexico, and were deported immediately after the game.
Further anger erupted after FIFA’s unprecedented decision to revoke red card suspensions for elite American players, just days before the decisive final against Belgium.
The ruling sparked widespread condemnation of host country bias and political pressure to force the governing body’s hand.
Rodri asks President Trump to leave stage while lifting trophy
Romero wasn’t the only big star to break the protocol of an American head of state.
Moments later, as the players prepared to hoist the trophy, Spanish midfielder Rodri reportedly asked President Trump to leave the center stage area.
The Manchester City icon wanted to ensure that the spotlight was completely on the players and on lifting the trophy, rather than being shared with political figures.
Despite being asked multiple questions, Trump ultimately remained on stage.
The controversial ending capped one of the most political and controversial World Cup competitions.
