Mumbai witnessed a historic convergence of sporting legends as Sachin Tendulkar, the icon of Indian cricket, presented Lionel Messi, the Argentinian football maestro, with a signed 2011 Cricket World Cup jersey at the Wankhede Stadium. The event, part of Messi's 'GOAT India Tour 2025', marked a "golden moment" for Mumbai and India, according to Tendulkar.
The Wankhede Stadium, a venue etched in Indian cricketing history as the site of India's 2011 World Cup victory, provided a fitting backdrop for this meeting of giants. A packed stadium roared as Messi greeted fans, kicked balls into the stands and soaked in the love. Tendulkar, in turn, welcomed Messi to Mumbai, acknowledging the electrifying atmosphere.
Tendulkar presented Messi with his iconic No. 10 jersey from the 2011 World Cup, commemorating India's historic triumph. The jersey was signed by Sachin and read, “Gracias, Leo,” on the back. Messi reciprocated the gesture by gifting Tendulkar a special World Cup ball. Both sporting icons posed for photographs, smiles radiating as they exchanged memorabilia.
"I have spent some incredible moments here," Tendulkar said, addressing Messi and the crowd. "Mumbai is a city of dreams, and a number of dreams have seen the finish line at this very venue. Without your support, we would never have seen those golden moments on this ground in 2011". He lauded Messi's achievements, dedication, determination, commitment, and humility. "When it comes to Leo, what does one say about him? He has achieved everything," Tendulkar added.
Messi's visit to the Wankhede Stadium was part of his 'GOAT India Tour 2025', with previous stops in Kolkata and Hyderabad. The Mumbai event also saw the presence of Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri and several Bollywood stars. Messi also presented his Argentina jersey to Sunil Chhetri. There was also a friendly football match, adding to the excitement of the occasion. Messi, along with Argentinian teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suarez, engaged with the crowd, kicking footballs into the stands.
The event coincided with the announcement of 'Project Mahadeva' by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, an initiative to identify and develop young football talent in the state. Tendulkar expressed his hope that football in India would reach new heights.
The meeting of Tendulkar and Messi, two legends who have inspired millions across the globe, was a celebration of sportsmanship and mutual admiration. It was a moment where cricket and football, two of the world's most popular sports, intersected on the hallowed grounds of the Wankhede, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans.
