Zlatan Ibrahimović became a World Cup TV star. Rebecca Lowe made it happen - The New York Times
Zlatan Ibrahimović, the former professional footballer, has announced his departure from television broadcasting following his debut as an analyst for the World Cup Final. He stated that his appearance was both his first and last time in the studio, indicating he will not return for the 2030 World Cup coverage. This announcement came during Fox Sports‘ broadcast of the final match.
During the broadcast, Ibrahimović addressed the audience and his co-hosts, saying, “I have been talking a lot the last one and half months, so these will be my last words.” He expressed his gratitude, adding, “I hope, America, you enjoyed it as much as I did. And this is also my farewell to this studio.” Host Rebecca Lowe sought clarification, to which Ibrahimović confirmed, “This was the first and last time for me, so thank you everybody.” His decision to step away from broadcasting was likened to his past tendency for quick departures during his playing career, where he represented 10 different clubs.
Despite his short tenure, Ibrahimović was noted for his natural presence on television. His confident demeanor and football knowledge were highlighted as key factors in his entertaining dynamic with fellow analyst Thierry Henry. His interactions with Alexi Lalas also garnered attention, often featuring playful yet pointed remarks. For instance, in response to Lalas‘ criticism of France‘s perceived arrogance, Ibrahimović countered, “it’s not arrogance, it’s confidence. Ignorant people will say it’s arrogance. Intelligent people will say it’s confidence.”
Behind the Scenes of a Successful Broadcast
The Fox Sports broadcast of the World Cup Final was described as a significant production, spanning 104 matches over 39 days across three countries. The final day’s coverage involved a complex logistical operation for the broadcast team, including Lowe, Henry, Ibrahimović, and Lalas. They began their day under the Brooklyn Bridge at 11 a.m., then traveled to the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford by ferry, helicopter, and a car with a police escort.
During the journey, Ibrahimović, known for his confidence, admitted to experiencing nerves while in the helicopter, a moment that Lowe skillfully navigated. She was credited with transforming potentially awkward situations into engaging television. Lowe‘s role as host was central to the broadcast’s success, with some comparing her influence to that of Rodri, the Golden Ball winner for Spain, in making the production cohesive. Fox Sports president Brad Zager had specifically sought out Lowe, securing her on loan from NBC, which significantly altered the studio’s dynamic.
The production team, including Zager‘s lieutenants Judy Boyd and Kevin Callahan, and Ibrahimović‘s primary producers Joel Santos and Zac Kenworthy, worked with Lowe to highlight Ibrahimović‘s strengths. They created segments such as naming him Fox’s Employee of the Month and making him a vice president, even having him host a segment in Lowe‘s place. These creative approaches aimed to showcase his personality and add an element of fun to the broadcast.
Reflections on the World Cup Coverage
The overall broadcast was seen as a success for Fox, particularly after initial challenges. Ibrahimović himself showed a more personal side during the tournament, revealing on the first pregame show on June 12 that he is “very emotional” and has “a big heart” for those in his inner circle. When asked by Lowe if his co-hosts were part of this circle, and Henry inquired about its size, Ibrahimović responded, “It’s small,” though he acknowledged it had grown over the five weeks of the tournament.
Other notable aspects of the coverage included the performance of game analyst Stu Holden, who was praised for his commentary during the World Cup Final, particularly his immediate reaction to a reckless tackle by Argentina‘s Enzo Fernández. Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, Mexico‘s all-time leading goal scorer, also made a strong impression on the second-tier studio desk. Host Jules Breach was recognized for her interviewing skills with the second team, demonstrating qualities similar to Lowe. The television rights for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups have not yet entered negotiation, but Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks‘s efforts on this production are expected to be beneficial in future bidding processes.
Darren Fletcher received accolades for his play-by-play commentary, though his description of England‘s 6-4 victory over France in the third-place game as the match of the tournament was considered an overstatement by some. The halftime music, modeled after the Super Bowl, was well-produced but extended the halftime period, which, combined with hydration breaks, raised questions about FIFA‘s management of the game. Shakira‘s performance was highlighted as the best among the acts. Former President Donald Trump, who was interviewed by reporter Jenny Taft, expressed a desire for the World Cup to be held in the United States while he is still alive, noting he would be 92 in 2038, the year of the next unassigned Cup.
Source: nytimes.com
