Instead of running to the corner of the field and crossing his arms over his chest as usual, Mbappe paused in the middle of the pitch, raised both hands as if holding an invisible flute, and performed a flute-playing motion. After being congratulated by his teammates, the 27-year-old striker even turned towards the camera to repeat the gesture, ensuring everyone saw it.

The celebration immediately sparked curiosity. Many fans questioned whether it was a special message or a tribute to a loved one, teammate, or music idol.

Kylian Mbappe performs a flute-playing gesture to celebrate France's opening goal against Senegal in a Group I match at the 2026 World Cup at MetLife stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, near New York, USA on 16/6. Photo: AP

In fact, the origin of this gesture began with a humorous conversation between Mbappe and British host James Corden during a Carpool Karaoke segment produced by FOX Sports before the World Cup.

During a recording session in a car, Corden unexpectedly mentioned that Mbappe had learned to play the flute as a child. The French captain confirmed this, stating that his parents wanted him to try various activities to broaden his horizons. "My parents wanted me to do many things, explore different fields, and open my mind," Mbappe said. "Because no one knows what will happen in the future."

*Mbappe's opening goal against Senegal

The Real Madrid club striker shared that he only studied the flute for about one or two years before stopping. When Corden asked if he could have become an excellent flutist, Mbappe laughed and admitted that it was unlikely.

The conversation became more interesting when Corden brought a flute into the car and suggested Mbappe try playing it again. The French striker initially refused before reluctantly attempting a few notes and then confessing: "I've lost all my skills."

From that moment, Corden conceived the idea of turning the flute into a new goal celebration. The British host described a scenario where Mbappe would score against Senegal and then run to perform the flute-playing gesture for the audience.

Mbappe immediately embraced the idea. "I'll do that for you," the French striker replied.

What seemed like a joke became a reality at MetLife stadium on 16/6. After a challenging first half, France accelerated in the second half. In the 66th minute, Michael Olise passed the ball to Mbappe in the penalty area. The French captain turned and struck the ball, scoring the opening goal, before precisely executing the celebration he had promised Corden.

*Mbappe's second goal against Senegal

Mbappe later scored another goal to seal the 3-1 victory in the final minutes, celebrating in his usual style. That goal helped him break the record for goals scored for the French national team, with 58 goals in 99 matches, surpassing Olivier Giroud. In their next match at the 2026 World Cup, France will face Iraq at 4 a.m. on tuesday 23/6, Hanoi time.

Compiled by Hoang An