Wayne Rooney catches attention during BBC World Cup coverage
Wayne Rooney drew praise from football fans on Tuesday evening after viewers noticed what they believed was a change in his appearance during the BBC’s World Cup coverage, reports BritPanorama.
The former England captain was part of the broadcaster’s punditry team alongside Gael Clichy and Olivier Giroud as France opened their tournament with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in New Jersey.
Rooney, who turned 40 earlier this year, appeared fresh-faced on air and quickly became the subject of discussion on social media. Several supporters suggested he looked fitter and healthier than in recent public appearances. One viewer wrote: “Is it me or has Rooney lost weight? Good on ya fella.”
Another commented: “Is it me or does Rooney look noticeably thinner? Looks better clean shaven too.” A third added: “Rooney looking proper healthy and noticeably lost loads of weight. Great to see.” Some fans also suggested that the former Manchester United striker may have been working on his fitness.
Others joked that the ex-England skipper had been dealt an impossible task by being seated next to Giroud, who is often regarded as one of football’s most handsome players. “Got to feel a bit sorry for Wayne Rooney,” one supporter quipped.
The positive reaction followed shortly after Rooney and wife Coleen celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary. The couple recently enjoyed a holiday in Spain and shared tributes to each other on social media. Rooney wrote: “Happy anniversary @coleen_rooney. Where’s them 18 years gone. Thanks for everything. Love you,” to which Coleen replied: “Happy anniversary @waynerooney 18 years.”
Rooney has previously spoken about finding it easy to gain weight, recalling in his 2012 autobiography that he once returned from a summer break seven pounds heavier than expected. Writing about the summer of 2009, he noted, “I’m stocky. I’m not like Ryan Giggs, all bone and lean muscle. But I gain weight quite easily. It’s not a problem though. Besides, I know I can shift it in a week or two.”
Meanwhile, on the pitch, France beat Senegal 3-1. Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show, netting twice, with Bradley Barcola also on target. France will face Iraq next, while Senegal will battle against Norway.
In the end, Rooney’s newfound appearance provides a brief yet striking reminder of how public figures can evoke varied perceptions, even amidst the thrilling chaos of a World Cup. The intersection of sports and personal journeys remains ever nuanced, underscoring that time and transformation touch all, whether on or off the pitch.
