In a recent interview with Argentine journalist Alexis Quig, Leonardo DiCaprio shared his heartfelt admiration for Lionel Messi, calling him not just a “legend,” but “the greatest of all time.” This praise came during a conversation about the Argentine football icon while promoting their new movie, One Battle After Another, alongside Benicio del Toro. The actor’s glowing remarks about Messi have made waves in both the sports and entertainment world, further cementing Messi’s status as an icon on and off the field.

DiCaprio’s Unwavering Admiration for Messi

When the topic of Lionel Messi came up, DiCaprio didn’t hesitate to share his deep respect for the Argentine star. He called Messi “the greatest legend”, and praised his skill, influence, and the incredible legacy he’s built in the world of football. “Messi is a legend, and I truly believe he’s the greatest of all time,” DiCaprio declared.

This is no empty praise from the Hollywood icon. DiCaprio is known for being a huge fan of football, and his words reflect his genuine admiration for the Argentine’s amazing career and unmatched skills. DiCaprio’s appreciation for Messi is not just professional; it’s personal, as the actor has made it clear in multiple interviews that he is a true football fan and that Messi is someone he considers an all-time great.

Benicio del Toro: A Fan of Messi, but a Bigger Fan of Maradona

While Leonardo DiCaprio was quick to express his love for Messi, his co-star, Benicio del Toro, had his own thoughts on the subject. Although he acknowledged Messi as a great player, he admitted that he was actually a bigger fan of Diego Maradona, another Argentine legend. Del Toro fondly recalled the time he had the chance to meet Maradona in person, a moment he holds dear as a lifelong fan of the iconic footballer.

Del Toro’s comments sparked an interesting debate among fans, as Maradona and Messi are often compared, with each representing a different era of Argentine football greatness. While Messi is widely regarded as the best player of his generation, Maradona’s legacy remains significant in the hearts of many, particularly those who witnessed his 1986 World Cup victory.

A Star-Studded Audience at the LAFC Match

DiCaprio’s admiration for Messi is not just theoretical; he has shown his support in person. In 2023, the actor was spotted attending one of Messi’s matches with Inter Miami as they faced off against Los Angeles FC. DiCaprio wasn’t the only Hollywood A-lister who made the trip to Los Angeles to witness Messi’s brilliance on the pitch. The stands were filled with a star-studded audience, including the likes of Selena Gomez, LeBron James, Owen Wilson, and even Prince Harry, all eager to see the legendary Messi in action in the Major League Soccer (MLS).

The sight of Hollywood celebrities flocking to Los Angeles to watch Messi’s trademark magic on the field was a testament to how far his influence has spread, not just in the world of football, but across global culture. It was a moment that highlighted Messi’s global appeal, drawing international figures from various industries to witness one of the best players in the world doing what he does best.

Messi’s Impact on Major League Soccer (MLS)

Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023 has been nothing short of transformational for Major League Soccer. His presence in the league has brought global attention to MLS, drawing in fans and celebrities alike who want to see the Argentine maestro in action. As the MLS Cup final approaches, Messi’s impact on the league continues to be felt, with millions tuning in to watch him lead Inter Miami on their journey to win the prestigious trophy.

A Global Legend

The fact that DiCaprio and other Hollywood stars are flocking to MLS games to watch Messi play speaks to just how much influence the football legend has had on the global stage. Messi has become a symbol not just of football greatness, but of human perseverance, talent, and the power of sport to unite people from all walks of life.

Messi’s journey from Rosario, Argentina, to becoming one of the greatest athletes the world has ever known is a testament to his dedication and humility. And as he continues to play in Inter Miami, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of footballers and fans across the globe. With his status as a global icon continuing to grow, Messi has not only won hearts on the football field, but in entertainment, business, and beyond.

What’s Next for Messi and Inter Miami?

As Messi continues to shine on the pitch, it’s clear that his journey in MLS is far from over. DiCaprio’s praise, along with the support from celebrities and fans, only solidifies the important role Messi plays in the rise of Inter Miami. Whether or not the MLS Cup will be lifted in 2025 remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Messi’s presence has already elevated the league to new heights.

The real question now is, will Messi’s continued presence in the U.S. leave a lasting impact on American soccer? As Messi leads Inter Miami into the finals, the world will continue to watch closely, eager to see if the Hollywood stars and global icons who gathered to watch him can witness the triumph of a living legend.