Roger Federer Talks Lionel Messi Comparisons As He Reveals His 2026 World Cup Hope

Last Updated:January 17, 2026, 14:37 IST

Roger Federer says that it is tough to compare himself with Lionel Messi, lauding the football icon’s greatness and 2022 World Cup win.

Roger Federer waves as he walks onto court during the Opening Ceremony for the Australian Open (Picture credit: AP)

Legendary tennis player Roger Federer has said that it is tough to compare him with Lionel Messi, who has done ‘amazing things in football’, adding that he is a big fan of the Argentine superstar and he is happy that he could win the World Cup in 2022.

Speaking to ESPN, Federer said that while he doesn’t know Messi personally, he holds him in high regard. He added that he is a huge admirer of Messi and was delighted by his success at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Federer also said that he will be following Messi at the World Cup this year and hopes the Argentine star goes on to enjoy further success.

“I only saw him once and met his parents in Tigre, when I played against Del Potro. I don’t really know Leo as a person, to be honest. It is difficult to compare us; he has done amazing things in football and I am a big fan of him," Federer said.

“The way he dominated and changed the game is incredible. I am happy that he has already won a World Cup, so he would not have that pressure at the next one, although playing in a World Cup is always a huge pressure," Federer added. 

Regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of his generation, he enjoyed immense success, winning 20 Grand Slam titles. However, in a display of trademark humility, Federer deferred to the greatness of Messi.

Messi is the most decorated player in football history, having won the Ballon d’Or eight times. While he has yet to confirm his participation in this summer’s World Cup, he is expected to feature in what would be his final appearance at the tournament.

Messi won the World Cup in 2022 to win his first title on the world stage and was also awarded the Golden Boot.

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