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Tennis great Roger Federer has showered Lionel Messi with praise after the Argentine's latest accolade
Argentine World Cup winner, Lionel Messi has received a heartfelt tribute from tennis great Roger Federer following his induction into the Times 100 most influential people of 2023.
Messi received the honour after guiding Argentina to its first World Cup title since 1986 with victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Federer praises Messi after he was named as one of Times 100 most influential people
Recognising his feat of greatness, fellow sporting dignitary and 20-time major-winner Roger Federer penned Messi a glowing tribute to mark the occasion, extolling the Argentine footballer and comparing his ability with a football to art.
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Federer started out his tribute by praising Messi’s longevity and consistency in winning and performance, saying, "Lionel Messi’s goal-scoring records and championship wins need no recounting here. What stands out to me about Messi, 35, is his consistent greatness over so many years. This is so difficult to achieve, and then maintain.”
Federer, who was forced to retire from tennis due to recurrent injuries in September 2022 at the same age, understands how difficult keeping up with the physical and mental demands of the game can be and was quick to praise Messi for still going despite his age.
Federer in awe of Messi’s ‘works of art’
The Swiss legend also praised Messi’s skill and technique with a football saying, “He dribbles like a magician, and his angular passes are works of art. His awareness and anticipation are almost beyond comprehension.
Federer also praised Messi’s impact and influence, both at the club and international level, reserving special respect for Argentina’s World Cup win.
“My career has just come to an end,” Federer said before continuing, “I now realize how much weight we athletes carry. But in our daily lives, we don’t even realize it. For a football player like Messi, that weight likely feels more massive, as he represents both a world-renowned club and a very passionate country.
Federer concluded, "Argentina’s World Cup victory was magnificent. Millions of fans’ taking to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate was an amazing moment in sports, witnessed around the world. Even those who don’t follow football must have realized the true impact of the world’s most popular game.”
Like Federer, Messi may not be around for much longer to display his incredible gifts for the World of football to enjoy, but while he still marches on the green, it is import to continue enjoying him.
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