Novak Djokovic has hailed Lionel Messi as a role model and said that he admires the Argentina captain and respects him a lot after winning the World Cup in Qatar.
The 35-year-old scored a brace and also converted his penalty in the shootout as Argentina won their third World Cup.
Messi was awarded the Golden Ball for being the best player in the tournament and ended the campaign with seven goals and three assists to his name.
Djokovic, as quoted by tennis world usa, said that he was fortunate to be present at the final and said it was an outstanding finish.
He went on to say that he admires Messi and respects him a lot. He also hailed the 35-year-old as a role model for children who look up to him.
“I was really fortunate to be there present. By many people, it’s the best World Cup final ever. What an outstanding finish, the way they won it, the way they were welcomed at home.”
Messi finally won the big one on Sunday as Argentina defeated France in the final on penalties after the game finished 3-3 after the end of extra time.