Jakarta, ThedailyID — France captain Kylian Mbappé has shared an emotional open letter thanking teammates and supporters after France’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign ended without lifting the trophy.
Mbappé published the message on social media on Monday, July 27, expressing pride in the team’s efforts while acknowledging the disappointment of falling short of another world title.
“We didn’t bring home the team trophy. It hurts, and it will hurt for a while,” Mbappé wrote.
The 27-year-old striker said winning the Golden Boot was a personal achievement, but admitted it could not replace the feeling of becoming world champion.
“I’m proud to win the Golden Boot, but it would have been much better if we had also won the trophy.”
Mbappé also praised his teammates, saying the individual award reflected the collective effort of the squad.
“This award belongs to the team as much as it belongs to me.”
The forward reflected on his journey with the national team, noting that he has now played in three World Cups, won one title, and captained France for the first time at the tournament.
He also thanked French supporters for standing behind the team throughout the competition.
“You never abandoned us, even in our toughest moments.”
Mbappé ended the letter by reminding fans that football continues beyond one tournament.
He said the World Cup may be over, but France’s story is not. He vowed the team would keep fighting together in future competitions.
