GOAT meets GOAT: Sachin Tendulkar gifts 2011 World Cup jersey to Lionel Messi at Wankhede

Lionel Messi’s much-awaited GOAT India Tour created a magical moment at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. The Argentine football legend shared the stage with Indian cricket great Sachin Tendulkar in an evening that fans will remember for a long time.

The stadium was packed with excited supporters as Messi walked out to a thunderous roar. He waved to the crowd, kicked footballs into the stands and took time to enjoy the love from Indian fans. He was joined by former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez and Argentine player Rodrigo de Paul.

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Tendulkar gifts Messi a signed jersey

The most emotional moment of the night came when Sachin Tendulkar joined Messi & Co. on stage. Mumbai’s favourite son presented Messi with a special Indian jersey, the one from India’s historic 2011 ODI World Cup triumph at the same venue. Sachin was even seen saying something to Messi.

⚽ Messi 🤝 Tendulkar 🏏

Two legends of their sports meet in Mumbai🫡🇮🇳

🎥 @ddsportschannel pic.twitter.com/CqwdkPcLZb

— 433 (@433) December 14, 2025

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Addressing the crowd and Messi, Tendulkar spoke about Wankhede and its memories. He called Mumbai a city of dreams and reminded fans how several dreams were fulfilled at the stadium in 2011. Sachin said the support of the fans made those golden moments possible.

“I have spent some incredible moments here. As we call it Mumbai is a city of dreams, several dreams have seen the finish line at this very venue. Without your support, we would never have seen those golden moments at this ground in 2011. And today, having all three of them here is a golden moment for Mumbai, Mumbaikars and India,” Sachin said.

“The way all three were received was remarkable. If I have to speak about his game, it is not the right platform. But what does one talk about him, he has achieved everything. We admire his dedication, determination, commitment and above all, he is loved so much for his humility and the person he is. On behalf of all Mumbaikars, wishing him and his family the very best of health. To all of you, thank you once again for being here and encouraging our youngsters. I hope football also reaches the height we all aspire,” he added.

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Meanwhile, Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri was also present at the stadium and played in an exhibition match, in which he scored a goal. Chhetri received a signed Argentina jersey from Messi himself. Apart from Chhetri, celebrities such as Ajay Devgn, Tiger Shroff and Jim Sarbh were also in attendance, along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.