“That photo is coming”: James Rodríguez responds to Antonella Petro after pre-World Cup 2026 controversy

Colombian soccer star James Rodríguez has extended a personal invitation to Antonella Petro, the daughter of President Gustavo Petro, offering her a jersey after a recent controversy. Rodríguez's message, shared by the 17-year-old Petro, aims to smooth over an incident that occurred during the national team's send-off for the 2026 World Cup.

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Antonella, that photo is coming. Additionally, you have my jersey, tell me where to send it?

Antonella Petro had stated that one of her biggest wishes was to take a photo with Rodríguez. She recounted feeling emotional upon seeing him and maintaining her admiration, despite not getting the picture. "The first goal I celebrated in my life was yours, James, in the 2014 World Cup against Uruguay, where you scored a volley. I will never forget it," she said, also recalling writing him letters as a child.

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The first goal I celebrated in my life was yours, James, in the 2014 World Cup against Uruguay, where you scored a volley. I will never forget it.

The controversy arose on June 4 during an event where President Petro presented the national flag to the team. Social media footage showed Antonella approaching Rodríguez, seemingly seeking a photo and autograph, while he continued greeting others. Rodríguez's response, "Antonella, that photo is coming. Additionally, you have my jersey, tell me where to send it?" was shared by Petro, who also emphasized the importance of unity for the national team. She urged Colombians to support the team without criticism, stating, "To our national team, we must support it with unity. On the field, we are one country."

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To our national team, we must support it with unity. On the field, we are one country.