Zlatan Ibrahimović signaled a potential end to his punditry career with Fox Sports in a surprise on-air speech immediately after the 2026 World Cup final concluded.
Ibrahimović, who served as an analyst for Fox Sports throughout the tournament alongside Thierry Henry, Alexi Lalas, and Rebecca Lowe, delivered his remarks moments after Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina.
"I have been talking a lot for the last one-and-a-half months but these will be my last words," Ibrahimović stated. "Alexi, thank you. Thierry, thank you. Rebecca, thank you. It has been an absolute pleasure to share this studio with you guys - you've made it very easy for me. I also want to thank Fox, America and all the people you don't see."
He continued, "I hope that America enjoyed it as much as me. This is my farewell to the studio. This was the first and last time for me. So, take care, everybody."
The 44-year-old former Sweden international's comments quickly gained traction on social media, with fans expressing disappointment and praising his direct, honest approach to commentary.
Ibrahimović retired from professional soccer in 2023, concluding a career that saw him win league titles with Ajax, Inter Milan, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, and score over 570 goals. His tenure with Fox Sports during the World Cup marked his first and potentially last foray into television punditry.