Trump’s Messi Praise and Argentina’s Defeat Spark New ‘Sports Curse’ Debate

President Donald Trump’s recent comments about Lionel Messi ahead of Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup Final have reignited discussions about a so-called ‘Trump sports curse.’ Trump’s praise for the Argentine star in a pre-game interview, combined with the team’s unexpected defeat, has fueled speculation across sports communities and social media about whether Trump’s presence or support somehow jinxes teams and athletes.

Trump’s Messi Remarks and the World Cup Final Outcome

In a pre-recorded interview with Fox’s Jenny Taft aired just before the World Cup Final, Trump refrained from officially picking a winner but expressed admiration for Messi. “I would say that it’s hard to bet against Messi … I won’t pick sides. I just think it’s very hard to bet against Messi. He’s great,” Trump said. Despite this endorsement, Argentina fell short against Spain, losing 1-0 in a closely fought match.

Trump was present at the match, attending the trophy presentation where he faced boos from the crowd. His brief handshake with Messi during the silver medal ceremony was widely shared and scrutinized, further amplifying the narrative of a potential ‘curse.’

History of the ‘Trump Sports Curse’ in 2026

This isn’t the first time Trump’s involvement or comments have coincided with disappointing sports outcomes. Earlier in the 2026 World Cup, the U.S. men’s national team suffered a humiliating 4-1 loss to Belgium shortly after Trump intervened with FIFA to suspend a red card against star forward Folarin Balogun. Although Balogun played, the team’s performance did not improve, sparking ridicule from international soccer fans and critics.

Similarly, during the 2026 NBA Finals, the New York Knicks lost Game 3—the only one Trump attended—breaking a 13-game winning streak. Fans reacted by performing rituals to “cleanse” Madison Square Garden of the supposed curse, highlighting the superstitious atmosphere surrounding Trump’s sports appearances.

Other Notable Instances Feeding the Curse Narrative

Beyond soccer and basketball, Trump’s attendance has been linked to unfavorable outcomes in other sports:

• In November 2025, the Washington Commanders lost decisively to the Detroit Lions in a game Trump attended. Following the match, Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown’s touchdown celebration mimicked the “Trump Dance,” later apologized for, and the Lions subsequently suffered a collapse missing the playoffs.
• At the 2025 Ryder Cup, Trump was present during the U.S. team’s poor start and ultimate loss to Europe. His confident remarks to the press did little to rally the team, which fell 15-13.

These examples have prompted social media users, commentators, and fans to joke about or seriously consider the existence of a ‘Trump sports curse’ affecting athletes and teams linked to the former president.

Exploring the Psychology Behind Sports Curses

Experts say the idea of curses like the ‘Trump sports curse’ reflects broader sports superstitions and the human tendency to find patterns in randomness. Sports outcomes are influenced by a complex mix of skill, strategy, and chance, but public figures’ involvement often becomes a focal point for fans seeking explanations for unexpected losses.

Some psychologists note that high-profile personalities like Trump attract more media attention, so any correlation with losses is amplified. The curse narrative can also serve as a humorous or cathartic way for fans to process disappointing results.

While no evidence supports a supernatural influence, the ‘Trump sports curse’ remains a compelling storyline as the 2026 sports season continues to unfold.