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The 2026 World Cup final gave us more than just a new champion—it sparked a fresh round of banter between two living football legends. After Spain edged out Argentina 1-0, veteran defender Sergio Ramos decided to spice up the celebrations with an Instagram post that sent fans from both camps into a frenzy.
Ramos, who already lifted the World Cup back in 2010, couldn’t resist trolling his eternal rival, Lionel Messi, with a photo that football fans will never forget. The Spaniard posted a picture of himself sleeping soundly, hugging not one, but two World Cup trophies—a clear nod to Messi’s iconic post-2022 World Cup photo.
Ramos’ post was a direct wink at Messi’s viral photo, where the Argentine superstar was seen lying in bed with the trophy he fought so hard to win. That image shattered Instagram records, racking up over 53 million likes and becoming one of the most popular posts in the platform’s history, according to Brandwatch.
Ramos Rekindles the Real Madrid vs Barcelona Rivalry
The relationship between Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi has always been defined by fierce competition and tension in LaLiga, with Ramos defending Real Madrid and Messi leading Barcelona. Even as both approach retirement, their competitive spark is alive and well—on and off the pitch.
Ramos’ post wasn’t just a personal celebration; it was a playful reminder to Messi—and the world—about who’s boss in recent Spanish football history. The image of Ramos with two trophies sends a clear message: Spain now boasts a World Cup double, while Messi has only managed to lift the trophy once.
Social media exploded instantly. Fans from both sides jumped in to comment, share memes, and relive the best moments from their epic El Clásico battles. This rivalry isn’t going anywhere—it’s got plenty of fuel left!
The Origin Story: Messi’s Golden Night in 2022
To really get Ramos’ jab, you have to rewind to 2022, when Lionel Messi finally achieved the impossible: lifting the World Cup with Argentina. After an epic final against France, Messi shared a photo of himself sleeping next to the trophy—a symbol of perseverance and glory that inspired millions.
That photo became a global phenomenon, cementing Messi’s status as one of the greatest ever. But after Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 final, the tables turned, giving Ramos the perfect excuse to return the favor with a little friendly trolling.
And Ramos wasn’t alone. Spanish midfielder Fabián Ruiz also joined the trend, posting his own version of Messi’s photo during the flight home—proving that the Spanish locker room knows how to celebrate in style (and with a sense of humor!).
Spain and Argentina: World Cup Stories Intertwined
Spain’s 2026 victory marks their second World Cup title, following their 2010 triumph with Ramos as a key figure. Back then, La Roja beat the Netherlands with a dramatic goal from Andrés Iniesta, changing the course of Spanish football forever.
Meanwhile, Argentina and Messi added another lost final to their record, this time against Spain. Messi’s World Cup final tally now stands at one win (2022) and two losses (2014 to Germany, 2026 to Spain)—an impressive record, but not enough to match Ramos and Spain’s double.
Social Media Buzz and Fan Reactions
Sergio Ramos’ post went viral in no time. While it probably won’t reach Messi’s 50-million-like milestone, it was more than enough to spark a wave of comments, memes, and debates about who’s the real king of the World Cup.
Fans of LaLiga, the FIFA World Cup, and both clubs jumped at the chance to reignite the age-old debate: Is it better to win two World Cups as a team, or one as the undisputed leader? The controversy is alive and well—and this rivalry isn’t cooling off anytime soon.
FAQ: Everything You Want to Know About Ramos, Messi, and the Viral Photo
Why did Sergio Ramos post that photo with two World Cups?
Ramos wanted to celebrate Spain’s second World Cup title and, at the same time, throw a playful jab at Messi by recreating the Argentine’s famous 2022 World Cup photo.
How many World Cups has Sergio Ramos won?
Sergio Ramos has won the World Cup twice with Spain: in 2010 and 2026.
How many World Cups has Lionel Messi won?
Lionel Messi won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022. He’s played in three finals, losing in 2014 and 2026.
How did fans react to Ramos’ photo?
The image sparked thousands of comments and memes on social media, reigniting the rivalry between fans of both players and their national teams.
Who else from the Spanish team copied Messi’s photo?
Midfielder Fabián Ruiz also shared his own take on the iconic photo during the flight back to Spain.
