ARGENTINIAN GOLFER MIMICS WORLD CUP CELEBRATION AT THE OPEN

Mateo Pulcini, an Argentine amateur golfer, recreated Enzo Fernández's World Cup celebration gesture at Royal Birkdale during The Open Championship on 16 July 2026, less than 24 hours after England's elimination from the tournament. Pulcini cupped his ear with his hands after holing a birdie putt on the 18th green, mirroring the gesture made by Fernández following Argentina's 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final on 15 July. The shot was a 40-foot putt. Pulcini was the only Argentine player in the field at Royal Birkdale.

Fernández had scored in the 85th minute of the World Cup match at Atlanta Stadium, with Lautaro Martínez adding a second goal late in the contest. England had led 1-0 for much of the match before Argentina's two late goals. The World Cup defeat meant England did not reach the final, which would have been their first appearance in a World Cup final since 1966. Pulcini's celebration at The Open was broadcast by Sky Sports and widely shared on social media.

Pulcini later clarified his intentions, stating he had not meant to show disrespect to England or the tournament. He noted that the celebration was a reference to his birdie putt rather than a taunt directed at English fans. According to reports, the grandstand at Royal Birkdale responded to his gesture with cheers rather than hostility. Pulcini said he had greatly enjoyed the tournament experience.