22.06.2026 11:22
A Turkish fan living in the US claimed that despite supporting the National Team throughout the World Cup, the players kept their distance. Their complaint, "They couldn't even spare a smile," sparked widespread reaction.
Criticism continues after our National Football Team's group stage exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and this time, statements from a Turkish fan living in the USA have come to the fore.
"WE WERE BY THEIR SIDE EVERYWHERE"
Stating that Turks living in the USA made great sacrifices for the national team, the fan explained that they went to the airport, hotel, and team convoys to welcome the players. The female fan said, "Hundreds of immigrants here tried to greet them, join the convoy, go to the hotel... They tried to be by their side everywhere."
"THEY DIDN'T EVEN SMILE ONCE"
Alleging that the players kept a distance from the fans, the fan expressed her disappointment with these words:
"They were so cold, so distant... They didn't take photos with people. They didn't even lift their heads to smile at people or crack a smile."
"WHAT'S WITH ALL THIS EGO AND ATTITUDE?"
Continuing her remarks, the female fan argued that national football players should establish warmer relations with fans. "We went to the match. Those who know Miami's heat know it. We were burning up in that heat. Turning around to wave or cheer shouldn't be that hard. We are abroad, you've come, and we didn't leave you alone. People paid for plane tickets from far away to come to a friendly match. Was it really that difficult?" she said.
CAUSED A STIR ON SOCIAL MEDIA
The post quickly sparked widespread reactions on social media. While some users argued that the fan's grievance was justified, others stated that the players were under tournament pressure and that the disappointment could affect their behavior.
FAN-PLAYER RELATIONSHIP DEBATED
This controversy following the early exit from the World Cup has brought the issue of communication between the national team and its fans back to the agenda. Especially the expectations of fans living abroad who travel long distances to support their team are being heavily discussed on social media.