Former England captain Wayne Rooney has reignited debate over football history by describing the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa as the “worst” edition of the tournament. Speaking on the YouTube channel The Overlap, the Manchester United legend reflected on what he called a disconnected and underwhelming experience during England’s campaign.
“You are not getting a worse World Cup than South Africa in 2010. That tournament never felt like a World Cup,” Rooney said, recalling the atmosphere and logistics that left him unimpressed.
England’s Struggles in South Africa
Rooney’s blunt verdict appears influenced by England’s disappointing performance. Despite a squad many considered world-class, the Three Lions struggled from the start. Rooney failed to score in any of the group-stage matches, including a 0-0 draw against Algeria, during which he was filmed mocking England fans for booing the team.
The campaign ended in humiliation with a 4-1 defeat to Germany in the Round of 16, leaving Rooney with memories of a tournament that fell far short of expectations. He described the atmosphere as “pitch black,” noting a lack of connection between players and fans.
“The way you normally go to welcome the fans… it was nothing. It just didn’t feel like a World Cup at all.”
A Tournament Remembered Differently
Rooney’s remarks contrast sharply with global sentiment about the 2010 World Cup. FIFA President Sepp Blatter hailed it as the “best-ever World Cup,” praising its organisation and cultural significance. Many fans remember South Africa 2010 for its vibrant energy, vuvuzelas, and Shakira’s iconic “Waka Waka” anthem, celebrating the historic moment of Africa hosting the event for the first time.
Football stars like Andrés Iniesta, Gianluigi Buffon, Thomas Müller, and Diego Forlán have all described the tournament as a memorable and special edition of the World Cup.
Speaking on the Same Platform, Rooney weighed in on Brazilian superstar Neymar, offering a frank perspective. While acknowledging Neymar’s talent and successes at Barcelona, PSG, and Santos, Rooney stated that he had never regarded him among football’s elite like Messi or Ronaldo.
“I like Neymar but I’ve never seen him as a top, top player. Like Messi, Ronaldo, that kind of category. He was good at Barcelona, but he was still overshadowed by Messi,” Rooney said.
Neymar, now 34, recently missed out on Brazil’s latest World Cup squad due to fitness concerns but remains determined to stay ready for future opportunities.
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