You know what they say; it takes a real one to know one. And when it’s Lionel Messi, best believe the Argentine knows greatness when he sees it.
In an exclusive interview with NBC, just days after renewing
his Inter Miami contract until 2028, Messi opened up about the athletes he considers true legends — or “GOATs” — across different sports.
True to form, the World Cup-winning No. 10 showed his trademark humility, placing Diego Maradona, the man he’s been endlessly compared to, above all others.
“For us Argentines, Maradona has always been our greatest idol,” Messi said. “Even though I didn’t see much of him live, Diego transcended everything.”
He went on to praise icons from other sporting disciplines, naming Michael Jordan, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic as defining figures in their sports.
How Leo Messi is pronouncing Djokovic and Steph Curry might be the funniest thing you’ll see on the internet tonight 🤣pic.twitter.com/QebOT3QtGX
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) October 27, 2025
“Those three made tennis even bigger, always competing so closely to be the best; it was fantastic,” he added.
“I’m sure I’m forgetting many athletes, but I’d go with them. In basketball, LeBron James and Stephen Curry. These are players who have given so much to their sport in their own way,” Messi concluded.
Messi on 2026 World Cup: “I’d love to be there”
While focused on leading Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup, Messi hasn’t ruled out playing at the 2026 World Cup, though he’ll be 39 by then.
“It’s going to be spectacular. It’s something extraordinary to be at a World Cup. I’d love to be there, to feel good and be part of the national team,” Messi claimed.
“I’ll see if I can be at 100 per cent; being able to defend the title on the field would be incredible, because it’s always a dream to play for Argentina,” he concluded.
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