Rafa Nadal replies to Lionel Messi's sweet praise following World Cup hat-trick

Rafa Nadal has a reply for Lionel Messi. Earlier this week, following Messi's 2026 World Cup debut and his first hat-trick in the tournament, while representing Argentina, Messi shared his praise for Nadal and how he's been a source of inspiration and alignment in recent months. 

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Now, Nadal is sharing a statement. "Thank you, Leo Messi," Nadal wrote in an Instagram story. "And congratulations on that World Cup start!" he continued, adding a clapping emoji.

Messi's comments were made following his match, where he shared with journalists that he and his family were watching the "Nadal" Netflix documentary. He revealed that the story provided him with some inspiration. 

"Playing soccer is my passion since I was little, and when I'm okay, I give it my all. We're watching the Rada Nadal show, and I identify with him a lot," he said. "I think we're very similar in that way. I always want to give it my all, I always want to feel good, and I enjoy myself in that way. And while I can and am fit to do it, I'll be there." 

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Messi had an amazing World Cup debut, scoring three goals for Argentina. The match ended in a 3 - 0 scoreline with Algeria.

The statements highlight the similarities that exist between the two athletes, who've long pushed themselves to be their best and at the top of their respective sports. While they achieved the best possible results, they continued to push themselves further, breaking new ground in success.

More details about Nadal's documentary series

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Nadal's documentary series is available on Netflix. "Nadal" is made up of four episodes, charting Nadal's career since he was a child, and first began playing tennis. The documentary features interviews with other tennis greats, including John McEnroe, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic. 

Episodes track all the way towards the end of his career, in 2024, when Nadal decided to retire, focusing fully on a new stage of his life. The retirement coincided with his new life as a parent, with him welcoming two sons with his wife, Mery Perello. 

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