President Donald Trump booed by crowd at World Cup final before handing out medals, trophies

United States President Donald Trump was a prominent presence in the World Cup trophy presentation — not necessarily to the delight of the crowd. After Spain defeated Argentina in the final on Sunday, Trump was among the dignitaries on stage to present the teams with their medals and trophies.

Shortly after the match, the president entered the stadium with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Trump was booed as he walked out of the tunnel and made his way to the temporary stage.

On stage, Trump and Infantino were joined by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian prime minister Mark Carney, with the three heads of state representing the three host nations. Though others handed off the trophies, Trump presented the players with their medals and put them around their necks.

Trump's involvement in the trophy ceremony was confirmed last month, with Infantino saying that the two would be together "enjoying the final and handing the trophy to the winner."

Technically, Infantino was the one to hand the trophy to Spanish captain Rodri, but Trump was the only one of the three host leaders to be present as this happened.

Trump had a similar role in the trophy presentation at the Club World Cup last summer, standing front and center as Chelsea lifted the championship trophy.

The president's close friendship with Infantino and apparent influence over the FIFA president has received backlash, including from within U.S. Soccer as well as from other countries. And after Trump took credit for overturning a suspension on USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, Belgium trolled both the U.S. team and Trump himself following a win over the USMNT in the Round of 16.