On Sunday, two of the greatest sportspersons in history, Lionel Messi and Sachin Tendulkar, united the stage at a lavish event in Mumbai, adding another magnificent chapter to the legendary Wankhede Stadium.
Messi spent precisely one hour at the Wankhede on his third stop in his four-city GOAT India tour, interacting with young football players, cricket legend Tendulkar, Indian football star Sunil Chhetri, and entertainment industry personalities.
The arrival of Argentine football sensation Lionel Messi to Mumbai was described by Tendulkar as a “golden moment” for the city and the nation.
Tendulkar compared the visit of Messi and his Inter Miami teammates, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, to the 2011 Cricket World Cup victory at the same venue.
“I have spent some incredible moments here. As we call it, Mumbai is a city of dreams. And a number of dreams have seen the finish line here on this very venue. And without your support, we would never have seen those golden moments on this ground in 2011,” Tendulkar said, referring to India’s ODI World Cup triumph in which he played a major role.
“And today, having all three of them here is indeed a golden moment for Mumbai, Mumbaikars and India. The way you have received all three greats of the game has truly been remarkable.”
Talking about Messi, he said, “When it comes to Leo, if I have to speak about his game, it wouldn’t be the right platform. And you know, what does one talk about him? He has achieved everything. We really admire his dedication, determination, and commitment.
“And above all, his humility, the person that he is. And on behalf of Mumbaikars and Indians, I would like to wish him and his family the very best of health and happiness to all of you. Thank you once again for being here and encouraging youngsters.”
Tendulkar also hoped that “India also reaches the height that we all aspire to (in football).”
Tendulkar gave Messi a No. 10 jersey that he had signed. The captain of Argentina, who won the World Cup, returned the favor with a football.
The stadium’s sold-out crowd kept chanting “Messi… Messi” throughout the entire program.
