Lionel Messi didn't hesitate when asked if Michael Jordan is the true GOAT instead of him

Lionel Messi made his feelings very clear when he was asked if Michael Jordan is the true GOAT ahead of him.

Messi and Jordan are widely regarded as the GOAT of their respective sports.

The Argentinean, who won the World Cup with his national team in 2022, has a record eight Ballon d'Or titles to his name, having forged a legendary career.

'MJ', on the other hand, won an impressive six NBA championships during his legendary career with Chicago Bulls as he transcended the sport of basketball.

But who's the overall GOAT between Messi and Jordan?

Well, the Barcelona legend himself believes the basketball icon is the true GOAT.

Speaking to Argentine journalist Juan Pablo Varsky on an episode of the Clank! podcast, Messi said: "It seems to me, in terms of sports, he’s the greatest there is (…) But after having seen his series and getting to know a bit more about him, you know, 'The Last Dance', it just blows your mind, it’s a masterpiece, it’s impressive."

He added: "Well, that also brought me closer to him and to understand a bit more about who he was. It’s a pity that I couldn’t live through that era in person, because I would’ve loved it."

Lionel Messi in action for Inter Miami. Image: Getty

In another interview, Messi revealed that Jordan is the one and only athlete from the sports world that he wants to take a photo with.

"From the sports world, I would like to have a photo with [Michael] Jordan - meet him and have a photo with him," he revealed.

Of course, Messi is plying his trade in Jordan's home country with Inter Miami, having played in Europe following his spells at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.