Trump's handshake snub: Argentine defender Romero declines

One Argentine, Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero, refused to shake hands with former US President Donald Trump during the closing World Cup ceremony, as captured in videos that quickly spread on social media. The incident occurred as Trump, alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, presented medals to players, but Romero chose to skip the handshake.

The footage shows Romero receiving his silver medal from Gianni Infantino before walking past Trump, who was standing nearby. While other prominent players stood next to the former president and shook his hand, Romero deliberately avoided the gesture.

Trump, who had previously demanded a leading role in the ceremony, was met with boos from the crowd as he entered the field with Infantino. He proceeded to hand out medals, pausing for brief remarks with many players, and later presented the World Cup trophy to Spain.

Romero’s refusal marked him as the only Argentine and the only Tottenham Hotspur defender known to have shunned the American president, highlighting a stark contrast between his stance and that of his teammates and other internationals who accepted the handshake.

The divergent reactions underscore how political figures can polarise players, with Romero’s silent protest standing out amid a ceremony otherwise filled with smiles and photo‑ops.