As inscrutable as she is iconic, Victoria Beckham has once again proven herself to be a figure impossible to imitate. Even at the World Cup—obviously alongside her husband David Beckham, the English soccer legend—the former Spice Girl captured everyone’s attention without having to do a thing. In fact, perhaps it was precisely because of her ability not to do so. Yesterday, Argentina defeated the Beckhams’ England team, putting an end to England’s dream in the tournament, and one of the reasons to be disappointed is certainly that we won’t see the family cheering from the stands anymore.
Because while David Beckham experienced every match with the passion and excitement of someone who knows the field well, Victoria followed the tournament with her usual aplomb: a serious expression, impeccable posture, and minimal visible reactions. Like on July 11, during the match between Norway and England, when, three minutes into extra time, Jude Bellingham scored the goal that sent English fans and players into a frenzy. It was a collective outburst of joy that virtually the entire stands joined in on—except for Victoria, who remained serious and composed as if nothing had happened.
After all, she herself had already revealed this side of her personality with one of her most iconic quotes: “Fashion stole my smile,” printed on the now-famous T-shirt that has become a symbol of her relationship with that controlled and seemingly unshakable image.
Yesterday, however, Victoria made a small exception. After England’s first goal against Argentina, she let herself enjoy a moment of joy, hugging David Beckham. A rare gesture—one that wasn’t enough to change England’s fate—but one thing is certain: after more than twenty years, Victoria Beckham remains the most influential WAG in English soccer and beyond. Not only for having stood by one of the most famous soccer players of all time, but for having transformed the role of “soccer player’s wife” into that of a true icon of style and personality.
[📸 Getty Images; Snapix; IPA; Instagram: victoriabeckham]