Watch: Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal explode with joy after Spain’s World Cup glory
Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal joined millions of Spaniards in celebration after Spain beat Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday to become world champions for the second time. The triumph sparked jubilant scenes across the country, with two of Spain’s biggest tennis stars taking to social media to express their delight after La Roja. ended a 16-year wait for another World Cup crown.
Spain’s victory at New York’s New Jersey Stadium marked the culmination of an excellent campaign under Luis de la Fuente, who guided his side past Portugal, Belgium and France en route to the title. For Alcaraz and Nadal, both passionate soccer fans, the victory represented another milestone in Spanish sport.
Alcaraz, a lifelong supporter of both Spain and Real Madrid, played an active role in the final itself. The seven-time Grand Slam champion, who recently recovered from a wrist injury, was among the special guests in New Jersey and helped unveil the iconic Louis Vuitton trophy case alongside South Korean actress and model Hoyeon before kick-off. Carlos Alcaraz and actress Hoyeon with The Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk. Courtesy: Reuters
The 23-year-old was also spotted in the stands during the thrilling match. Videos circulating on social media showed Alcaraz reacting passionately to the action, at one point celebrating wildly before realizing one of Spain’s attempts had been ruled out. After the final whistle, the Spaniard shared his joy online as celebrations gathered pace.
Nadal, meanwhile, made his allegiance clear long before the final. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, whose uncle Miguel Angel Nadal represented Spain at three World Championships, posted videos celebrating the historic victory. One of Spain’s greatest sportsmen of all time, Nadal wore his love for the national football team on his sleeve for a long time and was among the millions rejoicing after the triumph.
TORRES OFFENSES AS SPAIN’S EDGE ARGENTINA
Spain finally broke Argentina’s resistance in the 106th minute when substitute Ferran Torres headed home Nico Williams’ cross. Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled much of the match, creating more chances and repeatedly testing goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina adopted a compact and physical approach in an attempt to frustrate their opponents, while Lionel Messi struggled to find space against Spain’s organized midfield and defence. The defending champions’ task became even more difficult late in regulation when Enzo Fernandez was sent off, reducing Lionel Scaloni’s side to 10 men.
With a numerical advantage, Spain increased the pressure in extra time and finally found the breakthrough that sealed their second World Cup title and signaled the arrival of a new generation led by stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
20 Jul 2026 12:56 IST