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Sachin Tendulkar and Lionel Messi created a historic sports crossover at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on December 14, 2025, during the Argentine star’s GOAT India Tour. The cricket legend gifted Messi his autographed No. 10 India jersey from the 2011 World Cup triumph at the same venue, while Messi reciprocated with a FIFA World Cup ball from Argentina‘s 2022 victory. Fans erupted in chants for both icons, blending cricket passion with football fervour in a rare moment.
Sachin Tendulkar and Lionel Messi share smiles and swap memorabilia at Wankhede
The exchange highlighted the shared No. 10 legacy of two global greats, drawing thunderous applause as the event host emphasized their common number. Tendulkar, who played his final international match at Wankhede, called Messi’s visit a “golden moment for Mumbai, Mumbaikars, and India,” linking it to India‘s 2011 World Cup glory where fan support fuelled dreams.
Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, shared smiles and a brief chat aided by his translator, captivating the packed stadium. These mutual memorabilia swap symbolized respect across sports, with Tendulkar later posting on social media that the day rated “10/10.”
Here’s the video:
MESSI & TENDULKAR 🐐🐐
— Messi World (@M10GOAT)
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Electric Wankhede Stadium atmosphere
Earlier, Messi interacted with fans, kicking balls into stands and joining exhibition matches, penalty shootouts, and a masterclass for young talents. Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri joined the spotlight, receiving a signed Argentina jersey from Messi in a heartfelt embrace that thrilled the crowd.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched Project Mahadeva alongside Messi, a statewide initiative to scout and train 60 under-13 footballers for future World Cups like 2034, boosting grassroots development. Bollywood stars and heavy security marked the high-profile evening, turning Wankhede—twice a Cricket World Cup site—into a unified celebration of athletic excellence. The GOAT Tour’s Mumbai leg, part of a four-city visit from December 13-15, left enduring memories for sports enthusiasts.
