Argentina legend Lionel Messi attended the Miami Open semi-finals on Friday with his family, witnessing Novak Djokovic cruise past Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets (6-2, 6-3) at the Hard Rock Stadium.
Messi & Djokovic Exchange Signed Jerseys
Following the match, Messi and Djokovic met in the dressing room, where they exchanged signed jerseys in a memorable moment between two sporting icons.
Djokovic expressed his excitement about playing in front of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, stating:
“Amazing to have him. It is a great honour to play, probably for the first time, in front of him live. I am really grateful he was here with his son and the family. I admired him, of course, as most of the world did for most of his career, and it is amazing he still keeps going. We are actually the same age, born in 1987, so it is nice to have him around.”
Messi Set for Inter Miami Return
After missing Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers due to injury, Messi is expected to return for Inter Miami against Philadelphia Union on Saturday. His return was confirmed by manager Javier Mascherano, who stated:
“Leo is good, God willing, and if nothing weird happens, he will be named to the matchday roster.”
Currently sitting third in the Eastern Conference, Inter Miami will be looking to continue their strong start to the MLS season with Messi back in action.
