Messi: "I identify a lot with Rafa Nadal"

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The premiere of the Rafael Nadal documentary on Netflix continues to elicit reactions of all kinds. The latest one has come from the world of football and from the hand of Lionel Messi. The captain of Argentina, who shone in the Albiceleste's debut in the 2026 World Cup with a hat-trick against Algeria, spoke about the Spanish documentary series and acknowledged feeling reflected in the way the 22-time Grand Slam champion approaches sports.

During the press conference after the match, Messi explained that he is watching the production dedicated to Nadal and pointed out several similarities between them. "We are currently watching Rafa Nadal's series and I identify a lot, I think we are very similar in that sense. I always want to give my best, always want to feel good, and I enjoy it that way. As long as I can and am well to do it, I will be here," stated the Argentine.

🗣️"I identify a lot with @RafaelNadal," Leo Messi, captain of @Argentina remembered the legend of world tennis after his first exhibition in the #MundialRTVE

📺30-minute super-summary of 🇦🇷🆚🇩🇿of group J of #MundialRTVE, at 13:30h. on Teledeporte and RTVE Play pic.twitter.com/6KzFjykVlN

— Teledeporte (@teledeporte) June 17, 2026

Messi's words come a few weeks after the release of Rafa, the docuseries produced by Netflix and Skydance Sports that premiered on May 29. Through four episodes, the documentary showcases the more personal side of the Spanish former tennis player, recounting some of the most important moments of his career and offering never-before-seen footage alongside testimonies from family, friends, and close associates.

This is not the first time Messi has shown his admiration for Nadal. The recognition of an athlete who has managed to extend his career like few in sports. Messi became, a week before turning 39 years old, the player with the most goals in the history of the World Cups (16), matching the record of the German Miroslav Klose. On the other hand, Nadal won 8 of his 22 Grand Slam titles after turning 30.

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