The Rock has weighed in on Lionel Messi’s World Cup campaign, labeling the Argentine a standout figure both on and off the pitch. Speaking on 9 Jul 2026, the WWE icon praised Messi’s resilience and character as the Albiceleste eye a second straight title.
What did The Rock say?
During an interview with LUZU TV, The Rock was asked point-blank about Messi by an Argentine fan. His response left little doubt. “I love Messi, yes,” he said. “I appreciate that there is an athlete who has just overcome the odds. It is incredible, I’m very happy for all of his success, and I hear he’s a great guy.”
The praise comes as Messi rewrote his own record books at the 2026 World Cup. On 9 Jul 2026, he became the competition’s all-time top scorer, adding another layer to a career already etched in gold. His latest haul pushed his tally past 20 goals in World Cup finals, a mark no other player has matched.
Why it matters for The Rock
For The Rock, the moment is more than small talk. Messi’s relentless chase of history mirrors the WWE superstar’s own GOAT debates in wrestling. Both men sit atop their sports’ GOAT conversations, with fans and pundits locked in endless comparisons. The Rock’s nod to Messi’s off-field reputation adds fresh fuel to that debate.
Messi’s path to a second straight World Cup crown is anything but smooth. Argentina face England in the semi-final on 10 Jul 2026, a rematch of the 2022 quarter-final thriller. A win there would set up a final clash with either Spain or France on 14 Jul 2026, both sides bristling with attacking firepower.
What comes next?
England arrive in the semi-final with momentum, fresh from a 2-1 win over Portugal on 6 Jul 2026. Their defense remains rock-solid, while Harry Kane’s finishing has silenced critics. For Argentina, the task is clear: control Messi’s touches, limit counter-attacks, and lean on Emiliano Martínez’s penalty heroics.
The Rock’s comments won’t shift tactics on the pitch. But they do spotlight a rare crossover moment where two global sports icons share the same spotlight. Whether Messi lifts the trophy or falls short, his legacy is already secure — and The Rock just gave it another public thumbs-up.