Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has revealed he came perilously close to missing a historic meeting with global icon Lionel Messi, all because of a nagging injury. The former national team captain opened up about his internal struggle before deciding to attend the Mumbai leg of the Lionel Messi GOAT India Tour 2025.
The Fan's Rebellion Against the Pro
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Chhetri described the days leading up to the event at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, December 14, 2025, as filled with "little fights." He was nursing an injury that had reduced his mobility to a hobble, making him hesitant to travel. "I almost didn't make the trip to Mumbai," Chhetri confessed, stating his frustration at spending more time with physios than on the pitch.
However, in what he called a rare victory, Sunil Chhetri the fan defeated Sunil Chhetri the professional athlete. The allure of meeting his idol, whose artistry on the football field he described as an "antidote" for sadness, proved too strong to resist. This personal rebellion led him to a memorable evening where the Argentine superstar shared the stage with Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar.
A Dream Meeting and Lasting Memories
Chhetri expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to thank Messi in person for his contributions to world football, calling it both "a dream and a duty." The event was part of the GOAT Tour, which concluded in New Delhi on Monday, December 15. Beyond Messi, Chhetri also met World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul and expressed child-like excitement at sharing a frame with legendary striker Luis Suarez, whom he hailed as "arguably the most complete No.9 of our generation."
The tour itself, which began amidst some logistical chaos, ended on a high note. During the final event, Lionel Messi addressed his Indian fans, promising a return. "It was a crazy experience, everything they did for us these days," Messi said. "We carry all this love with us, and we will definitely return, hopefully one day to play a match or on another occasion." His brief but intense 30-minute appearance in Delhi was enough to create a lifetime of memories for the attendees.
An Enduring Inspiration
Chhetri's revelation highlights the profound impact sporting icons can have on each other, transcending generations and national boundaries. His story is a testament to the power of fandom, even for a seasoned professional at the pinnacle of his own career. The evening at the Wankhede Stadium successfully bridged the worlds of football and cricket, uniting legends from Argentina and India in a celebration of sporting excellence.
The successful conclusion of the GOAT India Tour 2025, marked by this special interaction, has left an indelible mark on the country's sporting landscape, fueling hopes for more such international engagements in the future.
