Olympic gold-medallist Abhinav Bindra expressed concern over the way Lionel Messi’s recent G.O.A.T Tour in India unfolded, describing a “quiet sadness” at seeing vast sums spent on fleeting access and proximity photos with the football legend.
Messi’s three-day, four-city tour has understandably generated massive fan frenzy, drawing crowds wherever he goes. However, the frenzy has also created chaos, with politicians, celebrities, industrialists, and officials jostling for pictures, and fans in some cities, like Kolkata, struggling even to catch a glimpse despite paying thousands for tickets.
Questioning the purpose behind the spectacle, says Abhinav Bindra
“Parts of the tour felt chaotic and left me quietly uneasy,” Bindra said in an elaborate post on X. “It compelled me to pause and reflect—not in judgment, but in genuine concern about what we were really trying to achieve. Millions were spent on moments of proximity photographs and fleeting access to a legend. And yes, it is people’s money earned honestly and theirs to spend as they choose. Still, I can’t help but feel a quiet sadness, wondering what might have been possible if even a fraction of that energy and investment had been directed toward the foundations of sport in our country.”
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Bindra made it clear that he holds Messi in the highest regard. “Lionel Messi is one of those rare athletes whose story transcends sport. His journey from a child fighting physical odds to a footballer who redefined excellence has moved millions across the world. I hold profound respect and admiration for what he represents: perseverance, humility, and an uncompromising pursuit of greatness,” he added.
While recognising the economic realities and global branding that such tours involve, Bindra raised a critical question: “As a society, are we building a culture of sport, or are we simply celebrating individuals from afar?” He stressed that great sporting nations are built on systems, patience, and belief in ordinary children with extraordinary dreams, not just singular moments or celebrity appearances.
“Icons like Messi inspire us, and that inspiration matters deeply. But inspiration must be met with intent, long-term commitment, and choices that strengthen the sporting ecosystem for tomorrow,” Bindra said. He concluded by highlighting that the most meaningful way to honour legends like Messi is by creating a robust sporting culture, one that ensures legacies endure beyond fleeting spectacles.
(By PTI Inputs)
