Spain's Women's World Cup Triumph
The Spanish women's national team touched down in Madrid on Monday amid a roar of applause, a sea of flags and a royal reception that turned the capital into a living celebration of sport.
After a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final, the squad became the first nation to hold both the men's and women's World Cup titles simultaneously, a milestone that resonated through streets lined with supporters chanting and waving scarves.
The parade wound through central avenues, with thousands of fans crowding the route, setting off flares and dancing in unison as the champions rode past iconic landmarks.
A Bittersweet Atmosphere
The jubilation was tempered by tragedy when a 13-year-old boy in Salamanca was killed after a celebratory fountain collapsed, casting a somber shadow over the festivities.
Despite the loss, the team was greeted at Barajas airport by a throng of well‑wishers and later received a warm welcome at Moncloa Palace, where they met King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
International leaders joined the congratulations, with U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney each extending their praise for the historic achievement.
The victory also marks a turning point in Spain's recent economic and political climate, a contrast to the situation a decade earlier when the country last lifted the trophy in 2010.