Rafael Nadal hopes Spain can relive 2010 magic in World Cup final against Argentina

Rafael Nadal turned back the clock on Spain’s biggest night in football as La Roja prepare for another shot at World Cup glory. Ahead of Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, the 22-time Grand Slam champion sent an emotional message to the national team, recalling the unforgettable triumph in South Africa 16 years ago.

Spain will face defending champions Argentina in New York, hoping to win only the second FIFA World Cup in the country’s history. Before the final, Nadal wrote about X, spoke about his lifelong love of soccer and wished Luis de la Fuente’s team the best for what could be another historic night.

“Ever since childhood, soccer has been one of my greatest passions,” Nadal wrote.

“I have always enjoyed playing, watching matches and supporting our national team. I still remember the excitement of seeing the final in 2010 in South Africa. We will never forget it.”

The tennis legend then turned his attention to Sunday’s match against Lionel Messi’s Argentina, saying Spain have another chance to make memories that will last forever.

“Tomorrow we have another chance to enjoy one of those history-making matches against a national team and country that I respect and admire very much,” Nadal wrote.

“Good luck Spain.

As one of Spain’s most famous sporting icons and a lifelong Real Madrid fan, Nadal has rarely hidden his passion for football. His message quickly resonated with supporters who hoped La Roja could recreate the magic of Johannesburg in 2010.

TENNIS STAR RALLY BEYOND SPAIN

Nadal is not the only Spanish tennis star caught up in World Cup fever.

Carlos Alcaraz should also support the national team, with reports suggesting the world number three will travel to New York for the finals despite currently recovering from a wrist injury.

Alcaraz has kept a close eye on Spain throughout the tournament and celebrated their semi-final win over France earlier this week. The 23-year-old is on a break as he works to return to the North American hard-court swing where he will defend his title at the US Open later this year.

Spain will now try to end Argentina’s reign as world champions and lift the FIFA World Cup for only the second time. With messages of support from sporting giants such as Nadal and Alcaraz, Luis de la Fuente heads into the biggest match in world football carrying the hopes of an entire nation.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

18 Jul 2026 21:45 IST