New Delhi, Dec 17 (UNI) Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming affection he received during his G.O.A.T India tour, describing the experience as “intense, short, but beautiful” in an Instagram message.
“First of all, I’d like to thank India for all the love they’ve shown over the last few days. It was a great experience for us to be able to share,” Messi wrote, adding that while he expected the warmth from fans, experiencing it firsthand was “amazing.”
The World Cup-winning captain said he was deeply touched by the reception accorded to him across cities, noting the passion of Indian football fans. “It’s crazy what they’ve done for us over the past few days. We’ll take all the love, and we’ll be back,” he said.
Messi also hinted at a possible future return to the country, expressing hope that he could one day play a match in India. “Hopefully, one day we’ll be able to play a game, but we’ll be back to visit India. Thank you very much,” he added.
Messi concluded his India tour in Jamnagar with a visit to Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation centre hosted by Anant Ambani, after a packed itinerary across the country. He toured Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, meeting political leaders, young footballers, and Indian sports icons like Sunil Chhetri and Sachin Tendulkar. The grand finale in Delhi saw him participate in a celebrity match, interact with players including Suárez and De Paul, and receive special Indian cricket jerseys and a commemorative signed bat.
‘Intense, short, but beautiful’: Messi on India visit
