Messi Becomes Focus of Attention at 2026 World Cup Fanatics Fest

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi captured significant attention at the Fanatics Fest in New York as the 2026 World Cup final approaches. The 39-year-old player joined a distinguished group of global sports icons, including Tom Brady, Novak Djokovic, and Kevin Durant, at the event held on Friday, July 17, 2026. Brady, a record Super Bowl winner, Djokovic, holder of the most men's Grand Slam singles titles, and Durant, a four-time Olympic gold medalist basketball player, all took time to pose for photos with Messi after the event concluded.

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We will give everything.

The appearance marked Messi's final public engagement before the championship match against Spain, scheduled for Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. FIFA designated the four-day sports festival in New York as the official pre-final press conference venue, offering hundreds of fans a close-up view of players and coaches from both Argentina and Spain. Spanish captain Rodri expressed his admiration for Messi, calling him "the best of all time."

In a unique press conference format, sports legends served as interviewers. Djokovic engaged with Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni and Messi on managing pressure, while also speaking with Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente and captain Rodri about maintaining composure in high-stakes games. Tom Brady inquired about a viral photo of Messi with Lamine Yamal and asked Rodri about his pre-match message to his teammates. Kevin Durant questioned Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez about the significance of defending the world title.

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It is difficult to put into words what Messi means as a player and for Argentina. For me, he is the best of all time.

Players and coaches from both teams appeared to enjoy the unconventional setting. Scaloni advised his squad not to be burdened by the final's status, reminding them, "It's just one game left. We can't keep thinking that this is the World Cup final." Argentina has advanced to the final with a perfect record, winning all seven of their matches and remaining the only undefeated and untied team in the tournament.

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It's just one game left. We can't keep thinking that this is the World Cup final.