Patrick Mahomes, quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi and the significance of having the Argentine superstar at the upcoming NFL Super Bowl.

Since joining Inter Miami in mid-2023, Messi has sparked a football revolution in the United States. Not only did he make the Florida franchise the most followed in MLS social media, but he also led them to claim their first two titles in history: the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. Additionally, Messi has become a media sensation in a country where soccer has yet to reach the same level of popularity as in the rest of the world.

His impact has earned him respect from numerous celebrities and stars in American sports, including NBA star Stephen Curry. Following the announcement that Messi will attend this Sunday’s Super Bowl on February 9, he received high praise from Mahomes, one of the key figures of the Chiefs, who will compete against the Philadelphia Eagles for the NFL title.

“Messi is the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in his profession. Having someone like that at the game is going to be amazing because I can showcase who I am and what talent I have,” said the 29-year-old quarterback, who has recently led his team to championship victories in the last two seasons (2023 and 2024) and is vying for a third consecutive title, aiming for his fourth overall, adding to his 2020 championship.

Mahomes also recalled witnessing Messi’s brilliance firsthand during a Major League Soccer match: “I saw him play in Kansas last year; I think he scored a couple of goals in that match (he scored once and assisted another in Inter Miami’s 3-2 victory over the Kansas franchise in April 2024). That’s when I recognized the greatness he displays in every game,” he acknowledged.

Clearly, Messi continues to break barriers around the globe, garnering admiration from athletes in all sports realms. Even the top players in American football, the most popular sport in the United States, pay him homage. “He’s someone I can look up to and aspire to reach his level one day,” Mahomes concluded, looking forward to having Messi in the stands for Super Bowl 2025.