Sachin Tendulkar: The arrival of Argentine football great Lionel Messi to Mumbai was described by cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday as a “golden moment” for the city and the nation. Tendulkar likened Messi’s visit, along with those of his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, to the 2011 Cricket World Cup victory at the same venue.

“I’ve had some amazing experiences here. Mumbai, as we refer to it, is a city of dreams. And on this very location, some dreams have crossed the finish line. Tendulkar said, “And without your support, we would never have seen those golden moments on this ground in 2011,” alluding to India’s victory in the ODI World Cup, in which he was a key player.

“Having all three of them here today is indeed a momentous occasion for Mumbai, Mumbaikars, and India. It has really been amazing how you have embraced the three game greats.”

“If I have to talk about Leo’s game, it wouldn’t be the right platform,” he remarked, referring to Messi. What does one say about him, you know? He’s accomplished everything. His devotion, perseverance, and dedication are quite admirable.

“And most importantly, his humility and character. I also want to wish him and his family the greatest health and happiness possible on behalf of all Indians and Mumbaikars. Again, I want to thank you for being here and supporting young people.

Additionally, Tendulkar expressed his desire that “India also reaches the height that we all aspire to (in football).”

Tendulkar gave Messi a No. 10 jersey that he had autographed. The World Cup-winning captain of Argentina gave a football in return. On the second day of his four-city “GOAT India Tour 2025,” Messi landed in Mumbai at lunchtime amid “World Cup level” security measures.

On Monday, he will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi to conclude his tour.

Messi had arrived in India early on Saturday, but owing to inadequate crowd control and security failings, the first leg of the trip in Kolkata swiftly deteriorated into turmoil later in the day.

But in contrast to the chaos in Kolkata, his evening session in Hyderabad went smoothly and ended on a pleasant note.