Scotland midfielder John McGinn has captured global attention not only for scoring Scotland’s first men’s World Cup goal in 28 years during the 1-0 victory over Haiti but for the specific gesture he used to celebrate the moment. The Aston Villa star, widely known as the ‘Tartan Army’ favorite, celebrated by forming a goggles shape with his hands over his eyes.
In an interview with ITV Sport, McGinn confirmed the gesture is a tribute to his nephew, Jack, who struggles with severe eyesight issues. “It was at the time where Jack was having serious discussions about his eyesight,” McGinn explained. “It’s probably as strong a lens as you can get for a child. When he takes his glasses off, you can see how much he struggles.”
Beyond the personal tribute, McGinn aims to normalize the use of protective eyewear for children in sports. He revealed that he has received numerous messages from parents stating that his celebration has encouraged their children to wear their glasses or get their eyes tested. The 31-year-old reflected on his own youth, admitting he regrets teasing peers for wearing glasses in the past. “If my celebration brings awareness to that, then that’s the main thing. To do it on the world’s biggest stage was special,” he added.