World Cup 2026: 'Beast' Haaland and the Internet Craze

With 7 goals in 4 matches, Haaland is one of the leading contenders for the Golden Boot. However, the Manchester City star's appeal extends beyond his on-field performance. The image of a tall, powerful striker who frequently posts self-deprecating photos, uses funny filters on Snapchat, or engages with fans in a witty manner has turned him into the "Meme King" of this World Cup.

Numerous videos and images of Haaland are spreading rapidly online. Many fans have even nicknamed him "Princess of Norway" or "Friendly Giant"—nicknames that reflect the interesting contrast between his imposing physical presence and his playful, humorous personality off the pitch.

Sarah Wilson, a content creator from New York, said she wasn't a football fan but fell for Haaland after the World Cup. In a video that garnered millions of views, she shared: "I can't understand how someone who is one of the world's best strikers can also be so funny and adorable."

Haaland's rise also reflects the trend of athletes becoming mainstream cultural icons. According to Professor Jeffrey Kassing from Arizona State University (USA), social media allows sports stars to actively build their personal image, rather than only appearing through interviews or press conferences as before.

Experts also note that fans feeling close to players through social media has created "parasocial relationships"—a phenomenon increasingly common in the digital age. This helps many players, including Haaland, attract a large fan base beyond football.

Haaland isn't the only one; many other stars of the 2026 World Cup have also received special affection online. Luka Modrić drew sympathy from fans after Croatia was eliminated in what was his final tournament with the national team, while the friendship between Haaland and Jude Bellingham has inspired countless viral videos and images across online platforms.

Haaland himself admitted he was surprised by the affection fans have shown him at the 2026 World Cup. The Norwegian striker said: "Everything in this tournament has been amazing. I like Americans; they're very funny and friendly. It's great to see people embracing us like this."

As the World Cup increasingly transcends the boundaries of a football tournament, Haaland is becoming a clear example of how a soccer star can wield strong influence both on social media and in popular culture. From his goals to his witty posts, the Norwegian striker captivates audiences not only with his talent but also with a relatable, distinctive, and highly appealing image.