Lionel Messi led Argentina to its first World Cup victory in 36 years, a penalty shootout victory against France in perhaps the tournament’s greatest-ever championship match.
The 35-year-old again played a pivotal role for his country, scoring twice and starting the scoring in a penalty shootout they would win 4-2, with the score tied at 3-3 after 120 minutes.
Fans were shocked when Messi was presented with the World Cup trophy while wearing a black robe at the much-anticipated trophy presentation.
As he lifted the World Cup trophy with his team, it stayed draped over him and covered his legendary jersey, causing widespread confusion among bystanders. So, what precisely was the robe he wore?
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was awarded the trophy by FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the Emir of the host country, Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The Emir gave him the black robe with gold trim that he would wear at the ceremonial trophy presentation and lift.
The robe is referred to as a ‘bisht,’ a traditional piece of men’s attire in the Arab culture that is often worn for important events and rituals such as weddings.
Regal implications are linked with the best since secular authorities and clerics often wear it.
As this is the first World Cup ever to be hosted in the Arab world, it is only natural that this is the first time fans have seen the garment worn during the final celebrations. It is also the first time a World Cup-winning team captain has worn a traditional garment while carrying the trophy.
After the final whistle, Lionel Messi was awarded Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament, putting the finishing touches on a historic tournament for himself.
