A Croatian model and football enthusiast Ivana Knoll shared a playful video on her social channels, dancing to a track by Drake. The clip captures her in a moment of lighthearted fan energy that resonated with followers around the world.
Knoll rose to global recognition during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where her fashion choices drew attention for their bold nods to Croatia’s national colors. Her outfits, crafted to celebrate the team, stood out against a sea of jerseys and banners, becoming a talking point across sports media and social platforms. In Qatar, she was seen in a swimsuit in one of the city’s settings, prompting discussions about local sensitivities and cultural norms. Knoll herself acknowledged that some residents were surprised by the color-coded ensembles but also noted the positive reception from many fans who appreciated the visual support for the Croatian squad.
After the tournament, Knoll revealed in interviews that she received a flood of messages, including marriage proposals and flirtatious notes, from some of the world’s top football players who had followed the event. Her online presence during and after the World Cup underscored how a public figure can become a symbol of national pride while navigating the attention that comes with international exposure.
In a separate field of competition, the Croatian national team claimed a third-place finish by defeating Morocco 2-1, with Josko Gvardiol and Mislav Orsic finding the back of the net. The final pitted Argentina against France, ending with a penalty shootout that decided the world’s top honors. This sequence highlighted the dramatic arc of the tournament and the way individual performances and team dynamics shape national narratives in football culture today. Sources: tournament summaries and match reports.
Earlier coverage in sports media noted other athletes sharing moments in swimwear, including Russian figure skaters who posted a bath-time photo series. These posts, like Knoll’s, reflect a trend where athletes cultivate personal brands through bold visuals and social media presence, inviting fans to engage with sports beyond the field and rink.