AthleteWiki
Live
WRESTLINGStyles AJ Styles opens up on teaming with Dragon Lee in WWE final runSWIMMINGPeaty Adam Peaty returns to Glasgow Gold with new name and same fireWINTER SPOStenmark Stenmark's Enduring Edge: A Closer LookWRESTLINGOspreay Will Ospreay Signs with NJPW: A Life-Changing Decision for th...GOLFScheffler Scottie Scheffler defends Bryson DeChambeau amid calls for st...FOOTBALL (Mahomes Patrick Mahomes cleared for Chiefs' Week 1 return vs Broncos,...WRESTLINGStyles AJ Styles opens up on teaming with Dragon Lee in WWE final runSWIMMINGPeaty Adam Peaty returns to Glasgow Gold with new name and same fireWINTER SPOStenmark Stenmark's Enduring Edge: A Closer LookWRESTLINGOspreay Will Ospreay Signs with NJPW: A Life-Changing Decision for th...GOLFScheffler Scottie Scheffler defends Bryson DeChambeau amid calls for st...FOOTBALL (Mahomes Patrick Mahomes cleared for Chiefs' Week 1 return vs Broncos,...

Rodri Hernandez recalls 'crazy' 2010 World Cup camp experience in USA

2026-07-17 · Rodri Hernandez · Player Focus

Rodri Hernandez has revealed his 'crazy' 2010 World Cup experience at a summer camp in Connecticut, where he struggled to follow Spain’s historic victory. Now, as Spain’s captain, he prepares for the 2026 World Cup final in the USA, 15 years after his camp adventure.

What happened at the summer camp?

In a 2024 Players’ Tribune article, Rodri described the challenges of watching the 2010 World Cup in the USA. With limited internet access, he relied on camp counselors for updates. Spain’s early loss to Switzerland left him skeptical, but their knockout wins kept his hopes alive.

Rodri begged to watch the final on a tiny laptop. When Andres Iniesta scored the winner, he sprinted around a lake, shocking his American campmates. They called him 'crazy' for celebrating so passionately.

Why this story matters for Rodri Hernandez

Rodri’s 2010 experience highlights his lifelong connection to Spain’s success. Now, as captain, he leads a new generation. His journey from a homesick teen to a World Cup finalist mirrors Spain’s evolution in football.

What’s next for Rodri and Spain?

Rodri will captain Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, just 100 miles from his 2010 camp. A win would complete his trophy collection, adding to his 2024 Euros triumph and 2024 Ballon d’Or nomination. His story shows how far Spain-and Rodri-have come.

More Rodri Hernandez news →