On this day, the seven-time world footballer was crowned world champion with Argentina for the first time. With a brace and a converted penalty in the final triumph over France, the 35-year-old was instrumental in the success.
For the Timemagazine Reason enough to include Messi, affectionately known as “La Pulga”, in the “Titans” section of the list of the 100 most influential people of the year.
And as befits a titan, the eulogy comes from another master of his craft. Tennis legend Roger Federer praises the Rosario native for his consistent performance at the highest level over so many years. “This is so difficult to achieve and then maintain.”
It seems so simple and easy with Messi. “He dribbles like a magician and his angular passes are works of art,” Federer enthuses.
How great the admiration of the 20-time Grand Slam winner for the Argentine becomes clear in the following sentences. “My career just ended. Now I realize how much weight we athletes carry. But in our daily life we don’t even notice it. For a footballer like Messi, that weight probably feels more massive as he represents both a world famous club and a very passionate country.”
In his own childhood, Messi’s compatriots Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta were Federer’s idols, both of whom he had the privilege of meeting. “They inspired me.” But now the time has come for Messi to inspire future generations: “I can only hope that we will see his unique creativity and artistry a little longer.”
He also had a tip for this future generation: “Don’t blink too much when Messi is on the pitch. You could be missing out on something incredible from the man of the moment.”
In conclusion, he only had a short message for Messi. “Thanks Leo!”
