There is no Italian footballer in history more popular than Roberto Baggio. Nicknamed the “Divine Ponytail (Divin Codino)” for his flashy hairstyle and devotion to Buddhism, the attacking midfielder and striker was a gifted dribbler, creative playmaker, and crafty set-piece specialist in his heyday. Unlike fellow Azzurri members, Baggio stayed loyal to his home country by playing his entire 23-year professional career (1982-2004) in Italy’s Serie A – most notably for storied clubs Juventus (1990-95), AC Milan (1995-97) and Inter Milan (1998-2000). His National Team career spanned 17 years (1988-2004), and he came close to winning it all in 1990 (third place) and ‘94 (runners-up). Baggio is the only Italian to score in three different World Cups, and his nine total World Cup goals for Italy are tied for the most ever. In 2002, he became the first Italian in half century to reach 300 career goals in all competitions. He currently sits seventh in Serie A history with 205 goals in league play. Off the field, Baggio remains an inspiring humanitarian and activist, having received the Man of Peace award from the Nobel Peace Prize Laureates in 2010.

Offered here is one of Roberto Baggio’s match-worn Italy jerseys from the 1994 FIFA World Cup, hosted in the U.S. for the first time. The memorable tournament came down to a classic Final between Brazil and Italy on July 17th at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. The two world football powers played to a scoreless draw in regulation and extra time, sending it into a sudden death penalty shootout. With Brazil leading 3-2 on PKs, Baggio stepped up and sailed his attempt over the crossbar, giving Seleção its record fourth world title. It was a gut-wrenching ending for Italy. Twelve years later the Azzurri redeemed themselves by winning the 2006 World Cup in Germany, doing so without their pony-tailed star.

The blue, short-sleeved collared shirt made by Italian sportswear brand Diadora has Baggio’s iconic No. 10 on the front and back in white appliqué with a shadowed design. “R. BAGGIO” in white appliqué appears across the upper back. The FIGC (Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio) team crest is sewn on the left chest, and that same logo is repeatedly silhouetted throughout the body of the blue fabric. The collar and sleeve ends have the colorful Diadora triangular logo pattern. According to MEARS, the level of use is described as “moderate” and tailored measurements match other Baggio exemplars. No size is indicated. Manufacturer tagging within the collar is well-worn with evidence of being laundered multiple times. It is unknown which World Cup match this shirt was worn, but Italy wore their solid blues multiple times during the tournament.

Includes LOA from MEARS and letter of provenance from Marcos Teixeira, a longtime Technical Coordinator for the Brazil National Team and Real Madrid; he is also the nephew of former CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) President Ricardo Teixeira.