Lionel Messi: Argentina Captain Shares Heartwarming Tale on How He Became the GOAT

• Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, has opened up on how he became the 'best footballer' in the world
• He suggests his contribution to the GOAT status had little to do with him, attributing it to a Supreme Being
• Meanwhile, the 37-year-old is spearheading his nation's quest to defend the Copa America title in the USA

Lionel Messi has shared insights into how he achieved the status of the greatest footballer of all time (GOAT).

The Inter Miami star, who turned 37 on June 24, is currently competing with Argentina at the 2024 Copa America, aiming to add another trophy to his impressive collection.

Widely regarded as the GOAT ahead of long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi is seen by many as having 'completed football,' further cementing his legacy as the best the sport has ever seen, per GOAL.

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Despite being in the twilight of his illustrious career, which has seen him scoop an unprecedented eight Ballon d'Or awards, the Argentine legend has opened up about his journey to greatness.

Messi tells how he became the GOAT

In a candid interview with Argentine podcaster Juan Pablo Varsky, Messi revealed that his success is attributed to someone other than himself—God.

He humbly highlighted the 'spiritual' influences and support that shaped him into the extraordinary player he is today.

"It's very clear to me that I was born like this because God chose me. It was a gift he [God] gave me," he said, as quoted by Tribuna.

Reflecting on his journey to becoming the GOAT, Leo acknowledged that he has always stood out, possessing a unique quality that has endeared him to fans throughout the years.

"I was always different. People came to watch me. I didn't realise it, but I only began to understand that as I grew older.

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The former FC Barcelona icon also mentioned that he tried to balance his divine talent with other elements to achieve success but ultimately emphasised that his contribution was minimal.

"Of course, I tried to take advantage of it [talent], I tried to squeeze the most out of it, but the truth is, I did nothing to become the player that I already was when I was little."

Why Lionel Messi walks during matches?

Lionel Messi's ability to make the most challenging aspects of football appear effortless has led to a social media myth that “he is not hardworking.”

However, Messi recently shed light on the thought process on why he walks during matches, as reported by Sports Brief.

The 37-year-old revealed that he continually analyses the positioning of both his opponents and his own team while walking on the field.

His constant observation ensures he is aware of marking assignments and can track unmarked players effectively.