Ronald Acuña Jr. is basking in superhero status in Venezuela after his pivotal role in leading his country past Italy, 4-2, on Monday, securing their spot in the final of the World Baseball Classic for the first time.
The game took a dramatic turn in the seventh inning when Acuña's single drove in Andrés Giménez to tie the score at 2-2. With two outs, Acuña's clutch hit electrified the crowd at loanDepot Park, reigniting Venezuela's momentum.
"I just want to make my people proud and that's what I did today" 🙌
— ESPN (@espn) March 17, 2026
Ronald Acuna Jr. after Venezuela defeated Italy to advance to the WBC championship 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Gnu7OqELhu
After the game, the 28-year-old outfielder, who shines for the Atlanta Braves in MLB, shared his heartfelt emotions with FS1. “I was so excited, a lot of emotions, my family is there, everyone from Venezuela is there. As I said before, I just want to make my people proud, and that's what I did today,” Acuña expressed passionately.
Fans on social media poured accolades on Acuña, highlighting the significance of the moment. “You can feel how much that win meant to him,” one fan noted. Another echoed, “This is why the WBC means so much to players.”
One fan remarked on Acuña's distinct drive when representing Venezuela: “Man plays with a whole different motor when the Venezuelan flag is involved. Atlanta is taking notes.”
Another wished him well for the MLB season: “Great game, Ronald. Now, please just stay healthy all year long for the Braves.”
The pride Acuña carries for his country resonated deeply with fans: “He’s not just playing, he’s carrying his country on his back and making every Venezuelan feel proud out there.”
Looking ahead, Acuña and Venezuela are set to face Team USA in the final. The Americans are making their third consecutive appearance after edging out the Dominican Republic, 2-1. Acuña summed up the anticipation perfectly: “USA has a really good team, we have a really good team too, let's see what will happen tomorrow.”