Patrick Kluivert knows a thing or two about World Cup heartbreak—and the fierce determination it takes to overcome it. The Barcelona and Netherlands legend recently shared his thoughts on why injured stars like Lamine Yamal are willing to risk everything to compete in this summer's FIFA World Cup, while unveiling a new soccer field in New York's South Bronx aimed at inspiring the next generation of talent.
Kluivert, who famously scored for the Netherlands at the 1998 World Cup—including a dramatic last-minute header against Brazil in the semifinal that forced extra time and penalties—also knows the sting of missing out. The Dutch squad failed to qualify for the 2002 World Cup, and injuries hampered his chances of featuring in 2006. That firsthand experience gives him unique insight into the mindset of players like Yamal, who is racing against time after sustaining a hamstring injury that has ended his 2025-26 club season with Barcelona.
"Listen, the World Cup is the tournament that everybody wants to play in," Kluivert told The Mirror U.S. Sports. "The crazy thing about this is the players are looking after their bodies, but that's when the injury comes—when the World Cup is just one month away. When they try to look out for and protect against injuries, then it happens. It's the worst part about a big tournament coming up."
Yamal, who hasn't yet experienced World Cup competition, already made history by guiding Spain to UEFA EURO 2024 glory as a 16-year-old. His meteoric rise through Barcelona's La Masia academy has been nothing short of extraordinary. Now, despite his injury, the winger remains hopeful of representing his country on the grandest stage next month.
"Everybody wants to be fit for the World Cup, because that's the creme de la creme," Kluivert added. "You want to be shining your qualities while representing your country. It's unreal."
As the football world watches Yamal's recovery closely, Kluivert's words serve as a powerful reminder of what drives elite players to push through pain and adversity. For fans and aspiring athletes alike, it's a testament to the passion that fuels the beautiful game—and the gear that helps them perform at their best.