Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra has raised searching questions about how Lionel Messi’s recent GOAT Tour of India unfolded, saying the spectacle left him feeling “quietly sad” and worried about what the country really prioritizes in sport.
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In a detailed post on X on Monday, Bindra made it clear that his comments were not a criticism of Messi, whom he described as “one of those rare athletes whose story transcends sport”. Instead, the former goalscorer took the opportunity to reflect on the wider Indian sporting culture amid the frenzy surrounding the Argentine superstar’s visit.
“Lionel Messi’s journey from a child struggling with physical obstacles to a footballer who redefined excellence has moved millions around the world,” Bindra wrote, adding that he deeply respects what the World Cup winner represents in terms of perseverance, humility and the pursuit of greatness.
Messi’s three-day, four-city tour sparked huge fan interest but also unrest as politicians, celebrities, industrialists and officials competed for photos and brief access to the soccer icon. In Kolkata, frustration among fans who paid heavily for tickets but could not even catch a glimpse of Messi. allegedly spilled over into violent reactions.
Outside the show
Bindra said parts of the visit made him stop and think, not judgmentally, but out of genuine interest in what such events mean. While acknowledging the commercial realities of modern sport and the appeal of global icons, he expressed concern at the scale of resources spent on fleeting interactions.
He noted that even a fraction of this energy and investment, if redirected, could have strengthened the foundations of sports in India. Facilities where kids can play freely, access to quality coaching and well-structured programs at the local level, he argued, are what really shape a sporting nation.
The former Olympic champion questioned whether India’s focus is on building a culture of sports or only celebrating greatness at a distance. He noted that great sporting nations are built by systems, patience and enduring faith in young talent rather than isolated moments of spectacle.
Bindra emphasized that while figures like Messi inspire millions and that inspiration has real value, it must be coupled with long-term intent and determination. For him, the true measure of honoring sporting legends lies in creating opportunities at the grassroots level, ensuring that future generations have the space, support and belief needed to realize their own sporting dreams.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
December 15, 2025
