Henderson has become the first male England player to appear at four FIFA World Cups, after featuring in the national team’s opening group stage match at the 2026 tournament. The milestone adds to a career that already includes seven major international tournaments, a number no other England man has reached.
How the record was built
The journey started at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Henderson was also there in 2018, when England reached the semi-finals. The 2022 cycle in Qatar followed, making it three. The 2026 edition makes it four.
Along the way, Henderson also appeared at the UEFA European Championships in 2012, 2016, and 2020, rounding out his seven-tournament tally.
The record is particularly striking given that it almost did not happen. Henderson missed Euro 2024 entirely, which looked at the time like it might mark the quiet end of his international career. Instead, he returned under Thomas Tuchel’s management, earned his place back through strong pre-tournament performances, and got the call for the 2026 squad.
