The 'Baby in the Bathtub' Bathed by Messi: Returns as a Final Opponent 19 Years Later

19 years ago, Lionel Messi held a newborn Lamine Yamal in his arms. Now, the two are set to face off for the championship trophy in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Their first meeting took place by chance in 2007 during a photoshoot for a UNICEF charity calendar held at Camp Nou in Barcelona.

The long-forgotten photo gained renewed attention in 2024 when Yamal's father released it with the caption, "The beginning of two legends."

The final match between Argentina and Spain will be held at New Jersey Stadium in the United States on July 20 at 4:00 a.m. KST.

Messi and Yamal, representing two different eras of Barcelona. SportsMug brings you the story of their incredible connection, which began in a bathtub 19 years ago and has led all the way to the World Cup final.

Reported by Jinhyeong Park | Produced by Sports News Department
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.