In brief
Lionel Messi wrapped up his three-day visit to India, which began chaotically in Kolkata but ended on a positive note in Delhi. Thousands of fans flocked to witness the football icon who interacted with fans and peers alike. Despite an initial disruption, the latter events reflected Messi's immense popularity in the cricket-loving nation.
Football superstar Lionel Messi has wrapped up his three-day India tour in pollution-choked Delhi, following a chaotic opening in Kolkata. On Monday, thousands of fans gathered in a Delhi stadium to witness the Argentina and Inter Miami forward.
Accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi engaged in activities like kicking balls into the stands, passing with children, and signing autographs, while fans chanted his name. His flight from Mumbai was delayed due to fog, cutting short his itinerary.
In Kolkata, initial chaos erupted when angry fans vandalized a stadium after being denied access to see the football legend. Many had paid substantial sums for tickets, but poor event management led to a hostile environment, garnering significant media attention.
Despite the rocky start, Messi's subsequent appearances in Hyderabad and Mumbai were met with enthusiasm, where fans expressed their joy through social media. During his tour, Messi also unveiled a 70-foot statue of himself virtually and interacted with many celebrities, including Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.
The visit demonstrated Messi's immense appeal and the passion for football that resonates deeply in India, culminating in spirited events that highlighted his status as a global sporting icon.
