While Cristiano Ronaldo was champion, here's what Lionel Messi did.

In an unexpected but highly publicized encounter, football superstar Lionel Messi was recently seen with American football's prominent quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. The meeting occurred shortly before Messi was scheduled to depart and join his national team, Argentina, for upcoming international fixtures.

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The image of the two iconic athletes together quickly spread across social media platforms, capturing the attention of fans from both sports globally. The specific details surrounding the meeting indicate that it took place at an event, reportedly related to a shared endorsement with Adidas. Images show Messi and Mahomes together, with some featuring the FIFA World Cup trophy, further highlighting their respective achievements in their fields.

This convergence of two of the biggest names in sports generated considerable buzz. Mahomes, a multiple Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, and Messi, a World Cup winner and eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient, represent the pinnacle of their respective disciplines. The interaction between them offered a glimpse into the broader appeal and cross-sport recognition that top-tier athletes now command.

Following this high-profile meeting, Lionel Messi is now set to link up with the Argentine national squad. His participation is anticipated for upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, as Argentina continues its campaign towards the 2026 tournament. Messi's commitment to the national team remains a consistent aspect of his career, and his presence is crucial for Argentina's objectives.

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The encounter with Mahomes occurred in the United States, where Messi currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. This proximity has allowed for such cross-sport interactions to become more frequent. As Messi prepares for his international commitments, the image with Mahomes serves as a recent highlight of his activities before shifting his focus to representing his country on the global football stage.