James Rodríguez responds to Petro's daughter after alleged snub

Colombian football captain James Rodríguez has extended an olive branch to Antonella Petro, the youngest daughter of President Gustavo Petro, following a controversy over a supposed snub. Antonella had expressed her disappointment on social media after feeling ignored by Rodríguez when she requested a photo during the national team's pre-World Cup send-off event.

Rodríguez responded directly to the 17-year-old, who considers herself the "number one fan" of the Colombian team, with a message shared by Antonella herself. "Antonella, that photo is coming. I also have my jersey for you, tell me where to send it," Rodríguez wrote. He also thanked her for her encouragement to him and his teammates, adding, "Everything has its moment, and now is the time to be united for our selection in the World Cup... See you soon."

Antonella had recounted her experience, stating that meeting Rodríguez was one of her biggest wishes and that she felt emotional seeing him, despite not getting the photo. She recalled her childhood admiration for the player, citing his iconic 2014 World Cup goal against Uruguay as a moment she would never forget. She even mentioned writing letters to him and imitating his goal celebrations.

The incident occurred during a ceremony where President Petro presented the national flag to the team before their departure to the United States. Social media footage showed Antonella approaching Rodríguez, seemingly to ask for a photo and autograph, while he continued greeting others on stage. This led to criticism from some netizens who felt the president's daughter had been slighted. The Colombian Football Federation later issued a statement supporting the team and rejecting any form of aggression or disqualification against the players.