After leading Argentina to World Cup victory, Lionel Messi received tributes from current and previous football great.
The trophy Messi had never been able to win was the World Cup. Before now.
The 35-year-old was named the player of the Qatar 2022 tournament and one of the heroes of the championship match after scoring twice to help his team tie France 3-3 in extra time.
Even when he successfully scored Argentina’s first penalty of the shootout, he maintained composure, and the rest of his teammates contributed to bringing home the championship in what is likely to be his final World Cup.
The triumph has ended the discussion for many. Messi is the greatest player to ever play the game, and the captain of the Albiceleste has gained the utmost respect from both those who came before him and those who are still competing at the highest level.
Neymar’s teammate at Paris Saint-Germain, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho of Brazil, Gary Lineker and David Beckham of England, and Gavi of Barcelona are just a few of the stars who have paid respect to the Argentine giant.
It’s been an absolute privilege to watch Lionel Messi for nearly 2 decades. Moment after moment of spellbinding, breathtakingly joyous football. He’s a gift from the footballing Gods. So pleased that he’s lifted the ultimate prize in our sport. Gracias y felicidades, campeón. pic.twitter.com/XTiZUcovLI
— Gary Lineker ???????? (@GaryLineker) December 18, 2022
