Roger Federer pens passionate tribute to Lionel Messi in TIME’s list of 100 Most Influential People of 2023
Roger Federer has saluted fellow sporting great Lionel Messi for “his consistent greatness over so many years” and for being an inspiration after the footballer was named as one of TIME’s list of 100 Most Influential People of 2023.
Argentine legend Messi inspired his country to glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar in December as the South American country became three-time world champions – winning their first title since Diego Maradona lifted the trophy back in 1986.
Messi, who was named best player of the tournament as he scored seven goals and notched up three assists, has been at the peak of his powers for nearly two decades along with his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo, but many believe he is now well ahead of the Portuguese star after leading Argentina to World Cup glory.
The South American giants’ success in Qatar took Messi’s status to a new level and it was no surprise when he was named in the ‘Titans’ category of TIME’s list of 100 Most Influential People of 2023.
Tennis great Federer, who won 20 Grand Slams before retiring from the sport last year, was tasked with writing Messi’s profile for TIME Magazine.
“Lionel Messi’s goal-scoring records and championship wins need no recounting here. What stands out to me about Messi, 35, is his consistent greatness over so many years. This is so difficult to achieve, and then maintain. He dribbles like a magician, and his angular passes are works of art. His awareness and anticipation are almost beyond comprehension,” the Swiss maestro wrote.
“My career has just come to an end. I now realize how much weight we athletes carry. But in our daily lives, we don’t even realize it. For a football player like Messi, that weight likely feels more massive, as he represents both a world-renowned club and a very passionate country. Argentina’s World Cup victory was magnificent. Millions of fans’ taking to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate was an amazing moment in sports, witnessed around the world. Even those who don’t follow football must have realized the true impact of the world’s most popular game.
“Growing up, Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta were my favorite Argentine players. I was lucky enough to meet both of them. They inspired me. Now Messi can inspire future generations. I can only hope we get to see his unique creativity and artistry for a little bit longer. Don’t blink too often as Messi performs on the pitch. You may miss something incredible from the man of the moment.
“Thank you, Leo.”
READ MORE: Iga Swiatek joins likes of Lionel Messi on TIME’s list of 100 Most Influential People of 2023
