Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal are gearing up to cheer for Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
The World No. 3 is reportedly set to be in New York to cheer for La Roja against Argentina on Sunday. Meanwhile, the retired tennis legend shared his best wishes to his compatriots as they look to defeat Lionel Messi and Argentina.
Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal Show Support for Spain Ahead of the FIFA World Cup Final
Nadal and Alcaraz have both been getting into the World Cup spirit amid Spain’s historic run. Both players shared their excitement after Spain defeated France in the semifinals earlier this week, and Alcaraz is now reportedly headed to the United States for the World Cup final.
The 23-year-old, who is on an injury break, could be in attendance at the New York New Jersey Stadium to cheer for Spain before turning his attention to the North American swing.
Alcaraz has fond memories of his last trip to New York, having won the US Open in 2025. He is currently recovering from a wrist injury and will be aiming to return to full fitness in time for the final Grand Slam of the year.
Alcaraz will be attending the World Cup final in New York tomorrow to cheer on his fellow Spaniards 🇪🇸⚽
📸 @antonio_17_8 pic.twitter.com/IaUQOeEq8t
— Alcaraz Updates🐝 (@alcarazzupdates) July 18, 2026
Meanwhile, Nadal has sent his best wishes to the Spanish national team ahead of the final. The 22-time Grand Slam champion wrote about his love for soccer and the unforgettable experience of cheering for Spain when the nation won its first World Cup in 2010.
“Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been one of my greatest passions. I’ve always enjoyed playing, watching games, and cheering on our national team. I still remember the excitement of experiencing the 2010 final in South Africa. We’ll never forget it,” Nadal wrote on X.
Desde pequeño, el fútbol ha sido una de mis grandes pasiones. Siempre he disfrutado jugando, viendo partidos y apoyando a nuestra selección.
Todavía recuerdo la emoción de vivir en Sudáfrica la final de 2010 ⭐️. ¡Nunca lo olvidaremos!
Mañana tenemos otra oportunidad de… pic.twitter.com/iwt8bn7wYX
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) July 18, 2026
Nadal then turned his attention to tomorrow’s final against Argentina and sent his best wishes to the Spanish national team as it bids to make history. It remains to be seen if the Spaniard cheers for his country in person.
“Tomorrow we have another chance to enjoy one of those matches that make history against a national team and a country that I respect and admire greatly. Best of luck, Spain,” he added.
Nadal, a Real Madrid fan, has long had a passion for soccer. He has also been linked as a future presidential candidate of his boyhood club in recent months.
Spain and Argentina have faced off in some iconic matches over the years, with the most recent meeting between the two nations coming in 2018. Spain won that match 6-1, although this match is likely to be much closer.
