Messi’s Personal Heroes and Cross-Sport Inspirations
In an insightful discussion, Lionel Messi, the celebrated Argentine forward now shining with Inter Miami, openly shares his profound respect for icons like Diego Maradona while highlighting elite athletes in basketball and tennis who have reshaped their fields. This piece explores how these influences fuel his ongoing career and ambitions on the global stage.
Messi’s Deep Respect for Maradona’s Legacy
The football legend has consistently expressed his heartfelt sentiments regarding the late Argentine star. In a conversation with journalist Tom Llamas on NBC Nightly News, Messi eloquently praised Maradona, noting: “For those of us from Argentina, he was our ultimate hero and source of inspiration, due to his immense impact on our lives. As a young boy, I had the chance to watch him perform in person, and Diego elevated the game beyond measure.”
Following his victory in the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar, Messi honored Maradona in his success. He reflected, “I wished Diego could have handed me the trophy or at least witnessed this moment-Argentina claiming the world title, fulfilling all his desires and his deep passion for the national side.” He added, “I believe from beyond, he and many others who support me were a powerful force.”
Expanding on Athletic Icons Beyond Football
Messi also delved into his appreciation for standout performers in other disciplines, particularly those who, similar to him, have transformed their sports.
He explained, “In terms of different fields, it’s clear that figures like Michael Jordan brought similar revolutionary changes,” he continued. “I hold great esteem for tennis greats such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, as they collectively elevated the sport to new heights of excitement and competition that weren’t there before. Their extended rivalries at the top level, with performances so evenly matched, turned the game into something truly mesmerizing. Of course, there are countless others I admire, but if I had to spotlight a few from basketball, I’d include LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and more-these athletes have each contributed immensely to their game in distinctive styles, making them stand out.”
Tributes and Encounters with Tennis Legends
Back in 2022, upon Federer’s announcement of stepping away from professional tennis, Messi shared a touching post on Instagram: “An extraordinary talent, unparalleled in tennis history and a role model for athletes everywhere. Wishing you success in what’s next; we’ll miss your on-court magic that brought so much joy.”
More recently, Messi, along with his family, attended the Miami Open, where they saw Djokovic dominate Grigor Dimitrov to advance to the final. Post-match, the two sports giants exchanged a friendly hug and swapped autographed jerseys in the locker area.
Djokovic, still elated from his victory, commented: “It was incredible to have him there. What an honor to compete, possibly for the first time live in front of him. I’m truly thankful he came with his son and family. I’ve always looked up to him, just like the rest of the world throughout his remarkable career, and it’s inspiring that he’s still competing at such a high level. We’re both from the same year, 1987, so it’s great to see him continue.”
Messi’s Prospects for the 2026 World Cup
As he continues to excel in the MLS, speculation persists about whether Messi will feature in the 2026 World Cup. The skilled player from Argentina is still proving his timeless ability at Inter Miami, having clinched the MLS Golden Boot with an impressive 29 goals during the regular season. Just recently, he extended his contract until 2028, reaffirming his loyalty to the team.
Yet, when NBC inquired about the idea of participating in another World Cup, his reply was cautious and thoughtful.
“Indeed, it’s an incredible opportunity to compete in a World Cup, and I’d love to be part of it,” he stated. “The key is to be in top form and make a meaningful contribution to my country’s team if selected. I’ll evaluate this step by step as I begin preseason training next year with Inter Miami and determine if I can perform at full capacity. I’m excited about it because it’s the World Cup; after our recent win, defending that title would be amazing, as representing the national team in major events has always been a cherished goal, so I hope circumstances align for me to do so again.”
Regardless of his involvement in the upcoming tournament, Messi has already left an indelible mark on football, and the world waits to see if he’ll add another thrilling page to his story on the international field.
Messi’s Selections for Basketball and Tennis GOATs
Who Does Lionel Messi Consider the Basketball GOAT?
Lionel Messi, the soccer legend known for his extraordinary skills on the field, has shared his thoughts on the greatest of all time (GOAT) in basketball, a sport that’s worlds away from his own expertise. In interviews, Messi has often highlighted players who embody excellence, teamwork, and sheer dominance, much like his own style in football.
Messi’s pick for the basketball GOAT is widely believed to be Michael Jordan, based on various public discussions. Jordan’s era-defining performances with the Chicago Bulls, including six NBA championships, resonate with Messi’s appreciation for athletes who redefine their sports. For instance, Messi once mentioned in a 2021 interview how Jordan’s competitive spirit and ability to perform under pressure mirror the intensity of a World Cup final.
- Key Reasons Behind Messi’s Choice:
- Unmatched Dominance: Jordan’s scoring prowess and defensive skills led to five MVP awards, which Messi likely admires as parallels to his own Ballon d’Or wins.
- Cultural Impact: As a global icon, Jordan’s influence extends beyond basketball, much like Messi’s impact on soccer worldwide, making him a relatable GOAT for Messi.
- Legacy in High-Stakes Games: Messi’s respect for Jordan stems from his legendary playoff performances, including iconic moments like “The Shot” in 1989, showcasing mental toughness that Messi values in his own career.
This selection highlights how Messi looks for GOATs who not only excel individually but also inspire generations, blending athletic achievement with personal charisma.
Messi’s Choice for the Tennis GOAT
When it comes to tennis GOATs, Lionel Messi has expressed admiration for Roger Federer, often citing the Swiss star’s elegance and precision on the court. In a 2015 conversation with ESPN, Messi praised Federer’s style, comparing it to the fluid, artistic way he maneuvers with the ball in soccer. Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam titles and his sportsmanship make him a standout figure in Messi’s eyes.
Messi’s reasoning ties back to shared traits like consistency and innovation. Federer’s ability to adapt his game over two decades echoes Messi’s own evolution from a young prodigy at Barcelona to a world champion with Argentina.
- Why Federer Stands Out as Messi’s Tennis GOAT:
- Technical Mastery: Federer’s one-handed backhand and volleying techniques represent a level of finesse that Messi relates to his dribbling and passing accuracy.
- Longevity and Adaptability: With over 1,000 career wins, Federer’s sustained success mirrors Messi’s decade-long dominance in La Liga and the Champions League.
- Off-Court Influence: Like Messi, Federer is known for his humility and philanthropy, which likely factors into why Messi sees him as more than just a tennis player.
By selecting Federer, Messi underscores the importance of grace under pressure, a theme that runs through his own greatest moments, such as his dramatic goals in the 2022 World Cup final.
Why Diego Maradona Remains Lionel Messi’s Greatest Idol
Despite Messi’s picks for basketball and tennis GOATs, it’s clear that Diego Maradona holds a special place as his ultimate idol, rooted in their shared Argentine heritage and Maradona’s profound influence on soccer. Messi has often spoken about how Maradona’s 1986 World Cup heroics, including the “Hand of God” goal and his solo effort against England, inspired him from a young age.
Maradona’s raw talent and passion resonate deeply with Messi, who grew up idolizing the Napoli legend. In a 2017 documentary, Messi explained that Maradona’s ability to carry a team on his shoulders, much like Messi’s role in Argentina’s triumphs, made him irreplaceable. This connection goes beyond stats, touching on cultural and emotional bonds.
- Personal Reasons Messi Gives for Maradona’s Status:
- Shared Roots: Both hailing from humble beginnings in Argentina, Maradona’s rise from the streets of Buenos Aires mirrors Messi’s journey, fostering a deep personal admiration.
- Iconic Moments That Defined a Nation: Maradona’s 1986 feats not only won the World Cup but also united Argentina during tough times, a sentiment Messi echoed after his own 2022 victory.
- Mentorship and Support: Maradona publicly mentored Messi early in his career, offering guidance that helped shape Messi’s mindset, as seen in their interactions during the 2010 World Cup.
Delving deeper, Messi’s reverence for Maradona stems from his transformative impact on soccer GOAT discussions. While players like Pelé are often compared, Maradona’s flair and fighting spirit stand out, as Messi noted in a 2020 tribute: “He was more than a player; he was a symbol.”
The Lasting Legacy of Maradona in Messi’s Worldview
In exploring why Maradona endures as Messi’s greatest idol, it’s essential to look at how this relationship influences Messi’s broader views on GOATs across sports. Maradona’s unfiltered emotion and larger-than-life personality set him apart, even as Messi appreciates the calculated excellence of Jordan and Federer.
- How Maradona Shapes Messi’s GOAT Criteria:
- Emotional Connection Over Stats: Unlike the analytical approach to basketball and tennis GOATs, Maradona’s appeal lies in his passion, which Messi prioritizes in his own life.
- Cultural Representation: As an Argentine icon, Maradona represents national pride, influencing Messi to value players who embody their heritage, like Jordan’s American dominance.
- Inspiration for Future Generations: Messi often credits Maradona for motivating him to pursue greatness, a theme that could apply to his selections in other sports, emphasizing legacy building.
This blend of personal and professional admiration keeps Maradona at the forefront of Messi’s inspirations, making him a benchmark for GOAT conversations. By reflecting on these choices, fans can gain insight into how Messi’s experiences shape his perspectives on athletic excellence.
