All of Spain was waiting for the handshake between Trump and our attacker.

Spanish footballer Borja Iglesias, known for his outspoken political views, made headlines after shaking hands with former US President Donald Trump following Spain’s World Cup victory. The moment, captured during a post-match ceremony, became a viral sensation among Spanish fans who had eagerly anticipated the encounter. Iglesias, 33, played just one minute in the tournament before being substituted due to injury. Despite this limited participation, his handshake with Trump sparked widespread discussion. Known for his activism against racism, homophobia, and discrimination, Iglesias has long used his platform to advocate for social justice causes. His decision to shake hands with Trump, however, was met with mixed reactions, though he did not disappoint those expecting a bold stance. Prior to the final, Iglesias had expressed reservations about greeting Trump, acknowledging the potential controversy. In an interview with the magazine Panenka, he admitted that while he would not have been eager to extend his hand, he would have respected the protocol requiring players to greet dignitaries, including Trump, during the ceremony. “Yes,” he laughed when asked if he would shake Trump’s hand. “I don’t want to end up in jail.” He went on to describe how he imagined the moment: “I can imagine it. I hope we’ll all be very happy and that everything will pass quickly. Sometimes you need to forget what happened.” The handshake itself was brief and devoid of direct eye contact between the two men. According to reports from the influential Spanish newspaper As, which closely followed the unfolding scene, the camera quickly shifted focus to other members of the delegation, including officials from the Spanish Football Federation. This reaction suggested that the moment, while notable, was not intended to draw prolonged attention. Iglesias has built his career around challenging societal norms and advocating for marginalized communities. His support for Palestinian rights and opposition to systemic prejudice have often placed him at odds with more conservative voices within Spanish football. Yet, his actions on the field, both in terms of performance and public engagement, have consistently aligned with these values. Playing for Celtic Vigo, Iglesias scored 18 goals in 50 appearances, showcasing his talent despite his relatively short tenure with the club. His presence in the Spanish national team, even for a single minute, underscored the unpredictable nature of international competition and the emotional weight carried by athletes representing their countries. The handshake with Trump, therefore, represented a complex intersection of personal conviction, professional obligation, and public expectation. While some viewed it as a compromise, others saw it as a necessary gesture in the context of global diplomacy. For many Spaniards, the moment symbolized both the challenges and responsibilities faced by athletes who navigate the delicate balance between private belief and public duty.