If there's one thing that was crystal clear that came our of the world cup, it's how self righteous and ignorantly racist the western media is.
Me growing up in the Middle East, I thought most of their news was agenda driven and the western media was more open as they criticize themselves. But over the years, I've come to realize they are no better. The world cup just cemented this notion for me.
What they did was just hurtful.
Danish Media comparing Moroccans to Monkeys:
German outlets stating that the Moroccan players are part of isis because they are making the gesture that signals their thankfulness to the God.
And of course, the French media drawing terrorist cartoons of Qataris
Then most of the Western World comparing Messi's Bisht to a bathrobe where the reality is that it was a sign to honor Messi as it's similar to Knighting someone in England. It's not political, it's a cultural gesture.
You would not hear that when Pele wore a Sombrero when he won the cup in Mexico.
There are WAY more examples from this world cup alone, but you get the point. The hypocrisy, self righteousness, and racism is disgusting.
What was pleasant to see what that almost no westerner who actually went to Qatar felt the way the media was portraying the Middle East and Middle Eastern people. Perceptions shifted and I hope it continues.