Watch: Messi rocks India cricket jersey, leaves fanboy Kuldeep Yadav star struck

Lionel Messi's recent tour of India provided a memorable opportunity for the football icon to connect with prominent Indian athletes. During a promotional event in New Delhi, Messi met with several sports stars, including Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav, para javelin gold medalist Sumit Antil, and para high jumper Nishad Kumar.

Messi was seen wearing an Indian cricket jersey, a gift from International Cricket Council chair Jay Shah, during the Monday event in New Delhi. The football legend appeared happy as the Indian athletes met him for autographs and interactions.

Social media clips showed Sumit Antil introducing himself to Messi and receiving a signed javelin. Nishad Kumar also obtained an autographed pair of his spikes. Kuldeep Yadav, a known admirer of Messi and his former club Barcelona, appeared particularly awestruck by the chance to meet the football star.

The gathering, organized by Adidas India, also included World Cup bowler Renuka Singh Thakur and boxing champion Nikhat Zareen, who joined Messi and his Argentina teammate Rodrigo de Paul for a group photo.

The G.O.A.T. India tour spanned four cities: Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, revealing the passion of Indian sports fans. In Kolkata, known as India's football capital, thousands of fans gathered at the Vivekananda Yuvabharati Krirangan, with some having saved for months to buy tickets. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. due to overcrowding and security issues, Messi's appearance was cut short to less than ten minutes, disappointing many.

Hyderabad provided a more positive experience. Messi played football with children, acknowledged local academies, and completed several laps around the field. Rahul Gandhi was present but remained in the background, keeping the focus on the athletes and their interactions with Messi. The crowd responded positively as Messi thanked them for their support, emphasizing the significance of his visit.

Mumbai was marked by emotion and efficient organization. A key moment was Messi's meeting with Sachin Tendulkar, who presented him with a 2011 Cricket World Cup jersey. Messi also met Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri at Wankhede Stadium, where fans cheered for both stars.

Messi participated in a friendly penalty shootout and engaged with children from Project Mahadeva, a grassroots football initiative by the Maharashtra government. Joined by Luis Surez and Rodrigo de Paul, Messi contributed to a lively session that included playful moments and recognition of young football talent.

The Delhi finale experienced delays due to fog, which shortened Messi's appearance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Despite this, the stands were full as Messi greeted the audience and circled the ground. He addressed the fans in Spanish, describing the trip as "short but intense" and expressing his gratitude. Jay Shah presented Messi with a ticket to India's T20 World Cup 2026 opener and an Indian cricket team jersey with the number 10.

Messi concluded his tour with a visit to Anant Ambani's Vantara, a wildlife rescue center in Jamnagar, where he participated in traditional Hindu rituals and observed wild animals.