Tom Holland recounted a humbling experience where his invitation to "hang out" with soccer superstar Erling Haaland was seemingly ignored. During an appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," the actor shared that he had direct messaged Haaland with the offer, only to find out later that the athlete reportedly had no idea who Holland was and believed him to be "a random person."
"Yes [I DM’d him], and I’ll tell you what. That is exactly the type of humbling experience that is important for actors," Holland quipped. He confirmed the exchange, or rather the lack thereof, stating, "You’re like, ‘I’ll text him. I’ll take him to dinner.’ Not even a response. Not an excuse. Not, ‘I’m busy tonight, I’m playing football.’ Nada."
Holland, 29, explained that he got the idea to reach out after seeing Haaland, 25, at the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix the previous month. "He was like a hospitality suite across from me. I just thought I’d shoot my shot, send him a text. I never imagined I’d talk about it on live television. But here we are."
Despite the perceived snub, Holland maintained that Haaland is "incredible" and "an absolute legend."
Haaland has emerged as a significant figure in international soccer, recognized for his on-field performance and his distinctive public persona. Beyond his athletic achievements, he has gained viral attention for his fashion choices, including a collection of Birkin bags valued at hundreds of thousands of dollars, and for his often lighthearted off-field moments, such as carrying a taxidermy raccoon.
His "Viking Flow" haircut and perceived gentle personality have also contributed to his widespread appeal, creating a contrast with his powerful presence as a goal-scoring machine. This public image has even inspired fans, with actor Channing Tatum notably dressing up as the striker, complete with a wig, joining many others who have sported his jersey.