How This Soccer Star Conquered Tragedy to Seize His World Cup Moment

Published: June 16, 2026

By Mallory Mattingly

Mexico soccer star Raúl Jiménez scored his first World Cup goal last week, an emotional moment for the El Tri athlete as he’s made an incredible comeback in recent years.

Six years ago, in November 2020, Jiménez suffered a skull fracture while playing Wolverhampton that almost took him out of soccer altogether. NBC News reported that he had to undergo “life-saving surgery.”

After months of rehab and being told he may never play soccer again, he returned to the pitch, where he has had to wear protective headgear ever since.

This header was too easy for Raul Jiménez 🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/DmOfbFXLXa

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 11, 2026

“I read an interview where he said this has to be his World Cup,” manager Javier Aguirre told the media after calling Jiménez’ World Cup appearance “perfect.” “I think he got off to a flying start. He had always been in someone else’s shadow, but today he is a starter for this team — and he has truly earned it.”

It has also been a trying few months for Jiménez as he has dealt with the death of his father, Raúl Jiménez Vega, in March. After Jiménez scored the goal he “pointed to the sky with both hands in celebration while dropping to his knees, similarly to his celebration after scoring against South Africa,” according to CBS Sports.

“On top of that, he was dealing with a personal situation that may have given him extra motivation,” Aguirre said. “And he even scored a goal. It was a perfect day for him.”

“A day filled with so many emotions — we’ve started the World Cup on the right foot, and we’re aiming for more! A goal with a special dedication!” the Mexico star wrote on social media last week.

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Jiménez did make the roster for the 2022 World Cup, but he would come off the bench. Mexico’s tournament run didn’t last long as they were knocked during the group stage.

Four years later, Jiménez has earned a starting position for Mexico and started this year’s World Cup strong by scoring his 46th goal for the national team.

As El Tri looks ahead to the rest of the tournament, their starting striker has already proven that no matter how hard you fall, it is always possible to rise up.

Mexico faces off against South Korea on Thursday, June 18, followed by a match up against Czechia on Wednesday, June 24.

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