In a remarkable display of sporting excellence, Lionel Messi has been ranked third in ESPN’s prestigious list of the Top 100 Athletes of the 21st Century, trailing only the legendary tennis player Serena Williams and the iconic swimmer Michael Phelps.The Argentine superstar, known for his unparalleled skills on the football pitch, found himself outshone by the achievements of these two global sports icons. Serena Williams, the trailblazing tennis champion, claimed the second spot, while the record-breaking swimmer Michael Phelps took the top position in the rankings.
Messi’s placement, despite being third, is a testament to his remarkable career and the impact he has had on the world of football. The Inter Miami striker’s goal-scoring prowess, his ability to lead his national team to glory, and his status as a global ambassador for the sport have all contributed to his lofty position in the ESPN Top 100 list.In contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s long-time rival, was ranked 13th in the list, highlighting the Argentine’s superiority in the eyes of the expert panel.
The year 2022 will go down as a landmark in Lionel Messi’s illustrious career, as the Argentine superstar finally achieved his lifelong dream of winning the World Cup with the national team.Captaining the Albiceleste in Qatar, Messi led his side to glory, overcoming tough competition and culminating in a thrilling final victory against a determined opponent. The striker’s leadership and skill were instrumental in guiding Argentina to the coveted trophy, cementing his status as a true legend of the game.Building on this monumental triumph, Messi and his teammates continued their success just months later, as they secured the Copa América title in July. In the final, Argentina faced off against Colombia, with Lautaro Martínez scoring the crucial goal to secure a narrow 1-0 victory.
Although Messi had to be substituted in the second half due to an ankle injury, his influence and impact on the team’s performance were undeniable. The Argentine captain’s ability to inspire and elevate his teammates has been a hallmark of his career, and this latest achievement is a testament to his enduring brilliance and unwavering commitment to his national side.These back-to-back triumphs on the international stage have further cemented Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His ability to lead his team to glory, even in the face of adversity, has earned him the adoration of fans and the respect of his peers, solidifying his place among the pantheon of sporting legends.As Messi continues to defy the passage of time and maintain his exceptional level of performance, the world eagerly awaits his next chapter, where he will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire audiences with his unparalleled skills and unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
Messi’s journey to international glory has been a long and arduous one, marked by heartbreak and near-misses. After coming close to lifting the World Cup in 2014 and the Copa América in 2016 and 2021, the Argentine captain finally achieved his dream in Qatar, leading his team to a thrilling 4-2 penalty shootout victory over France in the final.The match itself was a true classic, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical acumen. Messi, who had already scored several crucial goals throughout the tournament, opened the scoring with a composed finish in the first half. However, France fought back, equalizing late in the game to send the final to extra time and eventually penalties.
In the shootout, Messi stepped up and converted his spot-kick with his trademark calmness, setting the stage for Gonzalo Montiel to score the winning penalty and spark wild celebrations among the Argentine faithful. The images of Messi lifting the trophy aloft, finally capturing the one piece of silverware that had eluded him throughout his illustrious career, will be etched in the memories of football fans around the world.The Copa América triumph just months later added further gloss to Messi’s annus mirabilis. Argentina’s victory over Colombia in the final was a hard-fought affair, with Lautaro Martínez’s goal proving to be the difference between the two sides. Messi, despite being substituted due to injury, had played a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the final, showcasing his ability to orchestrate the play and create opportunities for his teammates.
Messi’s success with the national team has been a long time coming, and his emotional reaction to finally achieving his lifelong dream was a testament to the sheer determination and resilience he has displayed throughout his career. The 35-year-old has consistently carried the weight of a nation on his shoulders, and his ability to deliver when it matters most has cemented his status as one of the all-time greats.As Messi embarks on the next chapter of his illustrious career, with a move to Inter Miami in the MLS, the world will continue to marvel at his enduring brilliance and the indelible mark he has left on the game of football. His achievements, both at the club and international level, have transcended the sport, making him a true icon and role model for aspiring athletes around the globe.
