Messi Names Maradona as His Football GOAT, Hails Jordan, Nadal, Federer and Djokovic as Sporting Icons

Lionel Messi has crowned the late Argentine legend Diego Maradona as his greatest footballer of all time — the ultimate GOAT in the sport.

The Inter Miami captain made the revelation in an interview with NBC Sports (via All About Argentina), where he reflected on sporting greatness and the athletes who inspired him beyond football.

“For us, Maradona was the greatest idol and a source of admiration for everything he represented,” Messi said.

“Even though I was little and did not see much of him play live, Diego transcended everything.”

Drawing parallels between Maradona’s influence and legends in other sports, Messi praised basketball icon Michael Jordan, calling him a similar figure of dominance and inspiration.

“Speaking of another sport, I think it was the same with Jordan,” he said.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner also expressed admiration for tennis greats Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, describing them as the embodiment of excellence, longevity, and discipline.

Messi, who has often been compared to Maradona throughout his career, has long acknowledged the late football icon’s impact on Argentine culture and global football. His comments further cement Maradona’s enduring legacy as the player even Messi — widely regarded as one of the greatest — considers untouchable.