Kim Kardashian has recently come under fire following a widely shared moment involving her eight-year-old son, Saint West, walking out onto the soccer field as a mascot for Lionel Messi during an MLS game between Inter Miami and LA Galaxy.

The event, which many would consider a dream come true for any young soccer fan, instead sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with users accusing the reality star of using her wealth and influence to secure an opportunity that could have gone to a less privileged child.

The scene unfolded when Saint, holding the hand of soccer legend Lionel Messi, made his way onto the pitch ahead of the match.

Kim Kardashian proudly shared a clip of the moment on X (formerly Twitter), captioning it: “Saint walking Messi out on the field tonight at the LA Galaxy vs Inter Miami game!!! He is living the absolute dream!” The post quickly gained attention, but not all of it was positive.

Many social media users expressed frustration, arguing that the chance to be a mascot for one of the world’s greatest soccer players should be reserved for children who might not have such opportunities due to socioeconomic barriers.

Comments ranged from disappointment to outright condemnation, with some stating, “Would be awesome if some kid actually deserving of it got that opportunity, not someone who was incredibly lucky to be born to billionaires.”

Others bluntly called out the privilege on display, saying, “Talk about privilege.

Hope he can kick the ball.”

The backlash also included speculation that Kardashian had paid for the opportunity, with users suggesting that money had effectively bought the experience.

“Money can buy happiness.

Debate closed,” one user wrote.

Another added, “Tell the truth how much that cost.”

The sentiment that financial power can open doors even in the world of sports was echoed repeatedly, with remarks like “Whoever said money is not everything was lying.

Even Messi can be bought,” and “See what money does.”

Despite the wave of criticism, many others rushed to Saint’s defense, emphasizing that the boy’s genuine passion for soccer made him deserving of the moment.

Supporters argued that being a fan is what truly matters, not the wealth or status of one’s family.

One commenter noted, “Saint is a huge soccer fan and has always loved it so much and that makes him extremely deserving.

You think having a family and resources that make that available and possible for him make him less deserving? That’s very myopic thinking.”

Another added, “Any kid who is a FAN is deserving! He’s a kid & a huge soccer fan.

Why would his parents’ finances make him any less worthy of this moment? You make no sense.”

Other defenders questioned the underlying assumptions of the criticism, asking why Saint should be considered less deserving simply because of his parents’ wealth.

“That little boy just knows he loves soccer and that Messi is his hero.

Just like any other kid his age with ‘normal’ parents.

This narrative is so tired,” one user wrote.

The debate highlighted the tension between recognizing privilege and acknowledging individual passion and enthusiasm.

Kim Kardashian has been open about Saint’s love for soccer, often referring to herself as a “soccer mom.”

She has shared glimpses of his collection of soccer trading cards and frequently attends his games.

For his eighth birthday, Kardashian threw him a soccer-themed party, transforming her $60 million mansion’s backyard into a soccer paradise complete with bounce houses and skill-building setups.

The party guests all received personalized Adidas soccer jerseys, and Saint even styled his hair to mimic his favorite player Neymar, showing just how deeply invested he is in the sport.

Kardashian’s support for her son’s interests is evident, and her social media posts reflect a genuine pride in his enthusiasm and dedication.

While some critics see the moment as an example of privilege overshadowing merit, others view it as a celebration of a child’s dream coming true.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of wealth, opportunity, and deservingness, especially in the context of children’s experiences and passions.

Ultimately, the debate around Saint walking out with Lionel Messi underscores the complexities of privilege in today’s society.

It raises important questions about access, fairness, and how opportunities are distributed, but it also reminds us that children’s dreams and passions are valid regardless of their background.

Saint’s moment on the field was a personal milestone fueled by his love for soccer—a love that, many argue, deserves to be celebrated rather than criticized.

As the conversation continues, it remains clear that Kim Kardashian’s son is not just a beneficiary of privilege but also a genuine fan whose excitement for the sport is real.

Whether viewed through the lens of social inequality or individual passion, the image of Saint holding Messi’s hand as they entered the stadium will remain a memorable snapshot of a young boy living out a cherished dream.