World Cup 2026 kicks off: What to know Thursday, from the opening ceremony to the Knicks' historic comeback
Good morning. Here’s what you need to know today, from the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to a jaw-dropping night in the NBA Finals.
Bill Gates testified about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Inflation hit a three-year high — and President Trump said he “loves” it. The federal government will abruptly dismantle the system that monitors climate change and the oceans.
Nicole Fallert here with the news to know on Thursday, including the World Cup kickoff and a historic Knicks win.
The World Cup is here — and it’s bigger than ever
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest in the tournament’s history, brings together 48 nations for 104 matches across three host countries: the United States, Mexico and Canada. It all begins Thursday in Mexico City, with a trilogy of opening ceremonies that aim to reflect the diversity of each host nation.
The opening ceremony in Mexico City features a star-studded lineup: Shakira and Burna Boy are set to perform before the tournament’s first match between Mexico and South Africa. On Friday, Los Angeles will host the U.S. men’s national team’s opener against Paraguay.
But has the U.S. already lost? The U.S. men’s national team has a real chance at a deep run. Yet as our columnists note, the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown — some fans have been denied entry — plus ongoing conflict in Iran’s home country and soaring ticket prices could cloud America’s legacy as host.
⚽ Follow all of today’s World Cup action live with USA TODAY. Get the latest results, behind-the-scenes stories and analysis in our Extra Time newsletter.
Inflation hits a three-year high
Consumer prices rose 0.5% from April to May, with coffee alone jumping 17.5% from a year ago. In a sharp break from typical presidential restraint on price spikes, Trump told reporters he “loves” the inflation numbers — a remark that drew immediate criticism from economists and political opponents.
The cost of deserting Pride Month
When brands quietly distance themselves from Pride Month, LGBTQ+ shoppers notice — and they’re voting with their wallets. New data shows 42% of LGBTQ+ consumers say they trust those companies less, and 38% would switch to another brand entirely.
Unusual earthquakes rattle the globe
Two strong earthquakes struck back-to-back Monday in different parts of the world, reigniting fears that more serious temblors could be on the way. Seismologists are monitoring closely.
NBA Finals: The Knicks pull off the impossible
Last night, the New York Knicks mounted the largest comeback in NBA Finals history, erasing a 29-point deficit in Game 4 against the San Antonio Spurs. Madison Square Garden erupted as the Knicks moved one step closer to their first championship since 1973. Could Taylor Swift, spotted courtside, have brought the good luck? Fans certainly think so.
Health & Wellness: TikTok’s ‘tanmaxxing’ trend
This summer’s viral aesthetic is “tanmaxxing,” and young people are going to extreme lengths for bronzed skin. TikTok’s For You Page is filled with “tanfluencers” tracking UV-index windows, documenting prolonged sun exposure, and even trying “tanning pills.” While a golden glow has long been a beauty standard in the U.S., dermatologists warn the trend is eroding years of progress in sun-safety education.
Bad Bunny had a meet-up with the pope. Catch up on “Love Island.” And here’s how to plan a summer Route 66 road trip.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US news today: World Cup, Knicks, Taylor Swift in the Daily Briefing.