ESPN analyzed 747 unique pregame emotes from 747 players across 72 group-stage matches at the 2026 World Cup, identifying 43 distinct gesture categories. The most common emote was badge respect—touching, kissing, or pointing to the crest—used by 131 players (nearly 18%). Dr. Juveria Zaheer, a psychiatry professor at the University of Toronto, called it a "socially acceptable way to show some patriotism." Folding arms ranked second, favored by teams like Iran, Austria, and the United States. The two-handed fist pump (third) signaled joy, especially for Norway's eight practitioners.

Hand-rubbing (fourth) appeared on hosts U.S. and Canada, while hands-on-hips (fifth) dominated Iraq's starters. Beyond the top five, individuality shone: Belgium's Jérémy Doku mimed removing a crown, the Netherlands' Nathan Aké flashed relaxed "cowabunga hands," and Egypt's Emam Ashour froze mid-"lion growl." Only one player chose prayer hands. The study reveals how players use seconds of global airtime to project identity, from national pride to personal flair.