Raúl Jiménez's presence in Mexico's World Cup starting XI represents a medical miracle. During a November 2020 Premier League clash between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Arsenal, he suffered a skull fracture and brain bleeding after colliding with David Luiz, leaving teammates hearing the impact and calling for emergency medical help.

Doctors told Jiménez his survival defied odds, spending ten days in hospital unable to eat or walk properly. He returned by summer 2021 wearing a protective headband, knowing his career might never reach its previous heights. Fast forward to June 11, 2026, and the 35-year-old striker stood at midfield for Mexico's World Cup opener against South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

Jiménez didn't just play—he scored the decisive second goal via header, bursting into tears as he pointed skyward. His goal capped a 2-0 victory that helped Mexico advance to face Ecuador in the round-of-32. The veteran forward embodies resilience, mentoring younger strikers like Santiago Gimenez while refusing to shy away from physical challenges.

After this World Cup, Jiménez will return to Wolves on a new two-year deal. His story transcends statistics—it's about a player who nearly died, came back wiser, and seized his moment on football's grandest stage when Mexico needed him most.