As far as I am concerned, what Zidane did was improper, but I still have respect for him. Most of the time, he was a calm player and he was well respected. What the Marco Materazzi (italian guy) said to him was wrong, and got him very ticked off. If I was in Zidane's position, I would have done the same. It's a shame because I felt the outcome of the final match would have turned up differently if Zidane stayed there. He scored France's first goal, and that was a penalty... I'm sure he would have helped tons towards the end of the match, the french didn't seem to be very talented at penalties. I'm going to quote this for a good reason: "It's a strange exit for someone who remains an exceptional champion." Because that's how I feel towards the situation. Snipe.
Italy sucks having to insult other players and then doing the "dying swan"... I woulda headstomped the sucker a few more times. ITALY GOSU FAIR PLAYERS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBZ7HddZnLc&search=materazzi