The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup Final was a star-studded affair at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with celebrities like Tom Cruise, Matt Damon, Pharrell, Rihanna, and even President Trump in attendance. But while most guests dressed to impress, CBS journalist Gayle King found herself on the wrong end of a fashion critique.
King was named the "worst dressed" celebrity at the final, earning the top spot on the Daily Mail's list of fashion faux pas. The 71-year-old TV personality opted for an all-white ensemble that critics described as "frumpy" and "dowdy."
According to the Daily Mail, King wore a tight white tank top that showed off her toned shoulders and slim figure, but paired it with wrinkled white sweatpants that were "not the most flattering." She completed the look with sneakers and a silver purse, but the overall effect was deemed "boring" and lacking in style.
It was a hot and muggy day in New Jersey, so King may have prioritized comfort over fashion. But in a crowd full of bold looks—like Ivanka Trump's bold yellow dress that stole the show—her casual outfit stood out for all the wrong reasons.
The match itself saw Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 in extra time, with the game-winner coming after a tense 0-0 tie through regulation. Lionel Messi and his squad were denied a chance at back-to-back World Cups, and the loss sparked an ugly post-match brawl that drew widespread criticism.
While the on-field action was intense, the fashion game off the pitch was equally competitive. King's appearance was a stark contrast to the glamorous looks sported by other celebrities, including Rihanna, Livvy Dunne, and ASAP Rocky. The Daily Mail didn't hold back, calling her outfit "frumpy" and noting that the wrinkled sweatpants were a major misstep.
Despite the fashion backlash, King remains a beloved figure in journalism, known for her work on CBS. The World Cup final was a rare moment of leisure for the busy journalist, who joined the ranks of other A-listers at the event. As for her wardrobe choice, it's safe to say she won't be winning any style awards anytime soon.
The 2026 World Cup was a landmark event, with Fox's coverage drawing widespread acclaim for its production and commentary. But for King, the memory of the final will likely be tied to her infamous fashion ranking.
