India’s cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar walked across the Wankhede Stadium outfield towards Argentina’s football superstar Lionel Messi on a Sunday evening that will be etched in Mumbai’s sporting folklore. Tendulkar presented Messi with the iconic 2011 World Cup jersey, bearing his surname and the No. 10 on the back.
Messi returned the gesture with a replica of the football used in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph. Yet, the loudest cheer of the night was reserved for a different exchange — when Messi handed over his Argentina jersey to Sunil Chhetri, Indian football’s enduring face, triggering a roar that momentarily drowned out chants of both “Sachin… Sachin” and “Messi… Messi”.
The hallowed turf of the Wankhede thus added another glorious chapter to Indian sporting history as Tendulkar and Messi shared the centrestage during a grand event in Mumbai, Messi’s third stop on his four-city GOAT India tour.
Messi spent an hour at the venue, interacting with young footballers, Tendulkar, Chhetri and celebrities from the entertainment world. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis – in attendace with his wife Amruta and veteran football administrator Praful Patel – announced the launch of Project Maha-Deva, a state-wide initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing young football talent, while assuring world-class infrastructure support.
Accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, Messi walked out to a packed stadium that resonated with chants of “Messi… Messi”, at times making the Wankhede feel closer to Barcelona’s Camp Nou. The chants of “Sachin… Sachin” peaked once Tendulkar joined Messi on stage, with the batting legend recalling India’s 2011 World Cup triumph at the venue and praising Messi’s dedication and achievements.
The Argentinian great also interacted with former India captain Chhetri, members of the Mitra Stars and India Stars teams who featured in a seven-a-side exhibition match, and young players from Project Maha-Deva. The evening concluded with Messi and his teammates taking a lap of the ground, kicking footballs into the stands — a moment that will remain unforgettable for Mumbai’s sports fans.
— The Hindu (@the_hindu) December 14, 2025