World Cup's best and most disappointing XIs, from Messi to Pulisic

The 2026 World Cup has come to a close, and what a tournament it's been! With Spain emerging as the champions, it's time to reflect on the standout performers and those who fell short of expectations. The best XI of the tournament is a who's who of superstars, featuring the likes of Messi, who's once again proven why he's considered one of the greatest of all time.

The inclusion of Christian Pulisic in the most disappointing XI, on the other hand, raises some eyebrows. As one of the most talented American players of his generation, Pulisic had a lot riding on his shoulders, and his underwhelming performance has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. It's a reminder that even the biggest stars can have off tournaments, and the World Cup's high-pressure environment can be unforgiving. The USMNT's early exit from the tournament has already sparked a lot of discussion about the team's future direction.

As we look ahead to the next international break, all eyes will be on how teams and players respond to the lessons learned from this World Cup. For the USMNT, it's about regrouping and finding a new sense of momentum, while for Spain, it's about sustaining their winning form and building on their championship success. With the Tour de France and other major sporting events on the horizon, fans have a lot to look forward to – and we can't wait to bring you all the latest updates and analysis from the world of sports!

Originally reported by espn.com. TourNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.