Sports News Bulletin July 21: Spain's World Cup Celebrations, Messi Speaks, Rohit Sharma Century, FIFA Probe

Spain's World Cup triumph continues to dominate global headlines as millions celebrated La Roja's return home, while Lionel Messi has broken his silence after Argentina's heartbreaking final defeat. Elsewhere, FIFA has opened another investigation into post-final flashpoints, Rohit Sharma answered retirement speculation with a record-breaking century, and PV Sindhu's remarkable resurgence continues.

1. Spain receive heroes' welcome after winning FIFA World Cup

Spain's World Cup-winning squad returned home to a royal reception and a victory parade through the streets of Madrid as an estimated 1.8 million fans celebrated the country's second men's World Cup title.

The players met King Felipe VI, the Spanish royal family and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez before boarding an open-top bus to Cibeles Square, where thousands of supporters gathered despite soaring temperatures. The triumph also made Spain the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men's and women's FIFA World Cup titles, following the women's success in 2023.

2. Lionel Messi breaks silence after World Cup final heartbreak

Lionel Messi has spoken publicly for the first time since Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain, admitting the pain of losing the World Cup final "will take time to heal."

The Argentina captain reflected on the team's remarkable journey to a second consecutive World Cup final, highlighting comeback victories over Egypt and England before thanking supporters for their unwavering backing. Messi also congratulated Spain on their triumph, saying Argentina should remain proud of reaching back-to-back finals despite falling short in their title defence.

3. FIFA launches investigation into World Cup final brawl

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings following the heated scenes that erupted after Spain's World Cup final victory over Argentina.

The governing body confirmed it is investigating an on-field altercation involving multiple players after the final whistle, with Argentina defender Leandro Paredes among those involved in clashes with Spanish players. The investigation comes just days after FIFA also began examining Argentina's controversial Falklands banner celebrations following the semi-final victory over England.

4. Argentina's Premier League stars face visa debate over Falklands controversy

Three Argentina internationals who play in the Premier League-Lisandro Martinez, Cristian Romero and Enzo Fernandez-have become the centre of political debate in the United Kingdom following the Falklands banner controversy.

Some British politicians and campaigners have called for the trio's UK work visas to be revoked after they were pictured with the banner following Argentina's semi-final win over England. However, immigration experts have suggested that visa cancellations solely over the incident are highly unlikely while FIFA's disciplinary investigation remains ongoing.

5. Rohit Sharma answers retirement talk

Rohit Sharma responded to growing speculation over his international future by scoring a superb century in the ODI series decider against England at Lord's.

Although India suffered a 27-run defeat, Rohit's 138 became the first ODI century by an Indian batter at the Home of Cricket. The veteran opener dismissed retirement speculation, insisting his focus remains solely on contributing to the team and saying external criticism "doesn't really matter" as India continue preparations for next year's ODI World Cup.

6. Virat Kohli's advice played key role in PV Sindhu's resurgence

PV Sindhu's return to the top of world badminton has been fuelled in part by advice from Virat Kohli, according to her husband Venkata Datta Sai.

Datta revealed Kohli encouraged Sindhu to rediscover the joy of competing during a difficult spell in her career, a philosophy that became central to rebuilding the former world champion following injury. Combined with a sports science-led training programme and coaching changes, the approach culminated in Sindhu winning the Japan Open and returning to title contention ahead of the World Championships.