Messi remembers Maradona after World Cup win: 'He is the greatest of all'

Lionel Messi paid tribute to the late Diego Maradona following Argentina's dramatic semifinal victory over England in the 2026 World Cup. Messi emphasized that Maradona remains 'the greatest of all time' and dismissed any comparisons between them.

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We are lucky to have lived with Diego, to have enjoyed and loved him immensely, with all the joy he gave us.

"We are lucky to have lived with Diego, to have enjoyed and loved him immensely, with all the joy he gave us," Messi said after the match in Atlanta. He further stated, "I never wanted to compare myself with Diego, not at all, and I never will. For me, he is the greatest of all."

Messi recalled his close relationship with Maradona, noting their shared moments, both good and difficult, including the 2010 World Cup. He described Maradona's presence as "crazy" and a source of inspiration.

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I never wanted to compare myself with Diego, not at all, and I never will. For me, he is the greatest of all.

"He paved the way in that match against England, and we followed in his footsteps and everything he left behind, what he means to the national team, the legacy. This group has taken it to the highest level," Messi concluded. Argentina is set to face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, marking Messi's third appearance in the championship match.

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He paved the way in that match against England, and we followed in his footsteps and everything he left behind, what he means to the national team, the legacy. This group has taken it to the highest level.