Australian goalkeeping hero Patrick Beach said he was feeling "the love" after a well-known strip of sand in Melbourne was temporarily renamed in his honour.
Beach headed to the World Cup as No 2 to seasoned shot-stopper and Socceroos captain Mat Ryan.
But in a shock he started their first game against Turkey and was retained for the next two clashes with the United States and Paraguay.
Melbourne City's Beach, 22, has kept two clean sheets and is again set to play when they meet Egypt in the last-32 in Dallas on Friday.
His breakout tournament is being celebrated with St Kilda Beach officially being renamed Patrick Beach for the duration of the World Cup.
"What's better than one iconic beach? Two," said Alex Makin, mayor of the City of Port Phillip where St Kilda Beach is located.
"This is about getting behind the Socceroos and sharing in the excitement of the World Cup at home.
"Renaming St Kilda Beach is a uniquely local way to celebrate the team and embrace the global energy right here in Port Phillip."
Beach told reporters in the United States that he was honoured.
"It is very much appreciated, and I think it's pretty funny as well," he said.
"It's great to see the country is getting around us, we definitely feel the love and support here from back home."
Beach is one of seven players with Melbourne City connections representing Australia at the World Cup.
🎙️ "I think it's really exciting now."
— CommBank Socceroos (@Socceroos) June 27, 2026
🏖️ Patrick Beach on:
⦿ Pre-tournament expectations 🏆
⦿ Exciting time for Australian football 🇦🇺#Socceroos #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/lsjq3SwdT4
The others include club captain Aziz Behich, Mathew Leckie, Connor Metcalfe, Jordan Bos, Aiden O'Neill and Kai Trewin.
"You spend years developing players and hope they make a World Cup squad," said Melbourne City chief executive Brad Rowse.
"Having a beach renamed after one of them wasn't something we'd planned for, but we're happy to take it."
--------------------------------
Where to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026™
Fans can watch every FIFA World Cup 2026™ match live on DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family and Access. All matches are also available to stream on supported packages, ensuring flexible viewing options wherever you are.
How to stream the FIFA World Cup 2026™
With DStv Stream, you can follow every match anytime, anywhere. Download the app and enjoy seamless live streaming on the go.