An insight into the meaning behind the garment donned by Lionel Messi whilst lifting aloft the World Cup trophy has been provided late on Sunday.
The subject of Messi’s post-match attire, of course, grabbed headlines across the globe this evening.
After the veteran attacker guided his country beyond France to clinch glory on football’s biggest stage, Messi made his way to the podium, to be presented with the World Cup trophy.
In the process of receiving his gold medal, though, the Paris Saint-Germain standout was draped with an article of clothing, in the form of a black mesh cloak.
Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, stood alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, was the man responsible for wrapping the garment around Messi’s shoulders.
Amid complaints on the part of many viewers that the cloak took away from the 35-year-old’s special moment in covering his Argentine colours, though, an insight into its precise significance has since been provided.
Pic of the day. pic.twitter.com/738FEoO8AR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 18, 2022
It is a garment worn by men, which has been utilised in Arab culture for thousands of years now. As a general rule, the bisht is made use of on special occasions, such as weddings and religious celebrations.
As per The Athletic, though:
‘There is a further meaning to the bisht. They are usually worn by secular officials or clergy. This means it has status as a garment and is tied to royalty, wealth and ceremonial moments. It is the equivalent of wearing black tie in the western world.’
The item of clothing is known as a bisht.https://t.co/fnTzNn95hx
— Carl Anka (@Ankaman616) December 18, 2022
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