Mumbai: In a moment that thrilled sports fans across India, Argentine football legend Lionel Messi shared a special interaction with cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, shaking hands with the Master Blaster and accepting a cricket jersey during his visit as part of the ‘GOAT India Tour 2025’.

Sachin handed Messi his No.10 India jersey. Meanwhile, Messi, in exchange, offered him the FIFA World Cup ball.

Speaking at the occasion, Tendulkar said, "I have spent some incredible moments here. As we call it, Mumbai is a city of dreams. And a number of dreams have seen the finish line here on this very venue. And without your support, we would never have seen those golden moments on this ground in 2011.”

"And today, having all three of them here is indeed a golden moment for Mumbai, Mumbaikars and India. The way you have received all three greats of the game has truly been remarkable,” he added.

Talking about Messi, he said, "When it comes to Leo, if I have to speak about his game, it wouldn't be the right platform. And you know, what does one talk about him? He has achieved everything. We really admire his dedication, determination, and commitment.”

"And above all, his humility, the person that he is. And on behalf of Mumbaikars and Indians, I would like to wish him and his family the very best of health and happiness to all of you. Thank you once again for being here and encouraging youngsters," he added.

Tendulkar also hoped that "India also reaches the height that we all aspire to (in football)."

Messi arrived in Mumbai after completing packed events in Kolkata and Hyderabad, drawing massive crowds and fan frenzy ahead of his appearance at the Wankhede Stadium. Images and videos of Messi’s meeting with Tendulkar quickly went viral, with fans calling it a rare “GOAT moment” featuring two of the greatest athletes from different sports.

Accompanied by fellow footballers Luis Suárez and Rodrigo de Paul, Messi received a rousing welcome as fans gathered from across Maharashtra and neighbouring states to catch a glimpse of the World Cup-winning icon.

Earlier, Lionel Messi's event in Kolkata ended on a chaotic note, but he received a warm reception in Hyderabad. It was a memorable night for Hyderabad fans who gathered at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, as they witnessed Argentina's FIFA World Cup-winning icon, Lionel Messi, in action at the second pit stop of his 'GOAT India Tour 2025'.

Messi, also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, gave some children present at the venue a memory of a lifetime as he kicked the ball around the park with them for a few moments.

During his time in India, under-14 young football players from across the state will be selected by the Maharashtra Sports Department, and they will get the opportunity to practise with Messi on Sunday.

Delhi will be Messi's final pit stop for the 'GOAT Tour 2025' on Monday