Tom Cruise hails Messi as GOAT ahead of World Cup final: “My kids absolutely love him”

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Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise has declared Lionel Messi the “GOAT of football” and revealed that his children are desperate to meet the Argentine legend ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final.

The Mission: Impossible star, who is in New Jersey for a special appearance at the MetLife Stadium closing ceremony, spoke candidly about Messi’s impact on American culture during a media appearance.

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“He Has Become the Most Famous Man in America”

Cruise, 64, who has been enjoying the tournament alongside his close friend David Beckham, marvelled at Messi’s transformation into a cultural phenomenon in the United States.

“I’m so glad I’ll get to meet the GOAT of football,” Cruise said. “After this World Cup, Messi has become the most famous man in America.”

The actor, whose own fame spans five decades, acknowledged that Messi’s appeal now transcends the sport entirely.

“My kids are not even into sports, but they want a picture with Messi. They absolutely love him.”

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A Cultural Phenomenon

Cruise’s comments reflect the extraordinary impact Messi has had on American soil since joining Inter Miami in 2023. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has transformed the perception of soccer in the United States, winning back-to-back MLS MVP awards in 2024 and 2025 and leading the league with 29 goals and 19 assists in the latter campaign.

According to reports, Messi’s popularity in America has reached unprecedented levels for a footballer, with the Argentine now considered one of the most influential sports figures in the country alongside icons like Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

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A Star-Studded Finale

Cruise is among a host of celebrities descending on MetLife Stadium for Sunday’s showpiece. The pre-match closing ceremony, beginning at 1:30 PM EDT, will feature performances from Post Malone, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and streamer IShowSpeed.

Jennifer Hudson will perform the U.S. national anthem, while the half-time show boasts an extraordinary line-up including Madonna, Shakira, BTS and Justin Bieber.

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A Family Affair

Cruise’s children—Isabella, 32, and Connor, 30—are reportedly accompanying their father to New Jersey for the final.

The actor’s admiration for Messi is particularly poignant given his close friendship with Beckham, who played a pivotal role in bringing Messi to Major League Soccer. Cruise has previously credited Beckham with transforming the sport in America, but now acknowledges that Messi has taken it to another level entirely.

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The Final Showdown

Cruise will have his opportunity to meet Messi on Sunday when defending champions Argentina face Spain in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM EDT.

For the Hollywood icon, the occasion represents more than just a sporting event.

“Players like Messi come around once in a lifetime,” Cruise added. “My kids understand that, even if they don’t follow football. That’s how powerful his presence is.”

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