Football GOAT in Messi's eyes

Lionel Messi caused a stir in the football world with his humble answer when asked directly: "Are you the GOAT - the greatest player of all time?"

For Messi, Maradona is the greatest legend.

In an interview with NBC Sports , when journalist Tom Llamas asserted: "You are the GOAT", Messi just smiled slightly, neither denying nor accepting. Instead of talking about himself, the Argentine star turned to the sports icons that have inspired him throughout his career.

"For us - Argentines, Diego Maradona will always be unique," Messi shared. "He is the biggest legend, not only because of his talent, but also because of what he represents for our nation. I was a child when I watched him play, but Diego goes beyond the limits of football. He is something bigger than borders and time."

Besides Maradona, Messi also mentioned the great names of world sports such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Steph Curry, and the three tennis legends Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. That is how Messi sees greatness not through self-esteem, but through respect for those who reach the pinnacle of humanity and will.

Regarding the competition with Cristiano Ronaldo, in a conversation with DSports , Leo once said: "I have great respect for Ronaldo and his career. We are not friends because we have not had the opportunity to be close, but we always have great respect for each other."

The debate about "Who is the GOAT?" will probably never end. But one thing is clear: when called "the greatest", Messi does not need to nod. Because perhaps Leo's greatness has been recognized by everyone.

Source: https://znews.vn/goat-bong-da-trong-mat-messi-post1597886.html