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MUMBAI: Two global sporting icons shared a memorable moment at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, as Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar gifted his iconic No.10 jersey to Argentine football great Lionel Messi during the latter’s GOAT India Tour 2025.
Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and FIFA World Cup champion, arrived in Mumbai from Hyderabad earlier in the day, with the city’s stop turning into the highlight of his India visit.
The evening at Wankhede Stadium was electric, with chants of “Messi, Messi” echoing around the venue as the Argentine star walked out alongside Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul.
The reception reached another level when Mumbai’s homeboy Sachin Tendulkar joined Messi on the field, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
The presenter underscored the symbolic bond between the two legends, both synonymous with the iconic No.10 jersey and revered for redefining excellence in their respective sports.
Sachin Tendulkar then presented Lionel Messi with his India No.10 jersey from the historic 2011 World Cup triumph, a gesture that resonated deeply with fans inside the packed stadium.
Messi reciprocated by gifting Tendulkar the FIFA World Cup ball he won with Argentina, turning the exchange into one of the most cherished cross-sport moments witnessed in India.
Addressing the crowd, Tendulkar thanked Mumbai for its overwhelming support and described the occasion as a “dream moment” for the city of dreams.
He also expressed gratitude to Messi, Suarez and De Paul for gracing the iconic venue, while voicing hope that football would continue to grow in India through such global interactions.
The celebrations extended beyond cricket and football royalty, with Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri also sharing the stage with Messi.
The Argentine captain presented Chhetri with a signed Argentina jersey, acknowledging his contribution to Indian football.
Messi and his teammates were later felicitated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who presented the football superstar with a special memento to mark his visit.
