TThe 2026 Winter Olympics produced countless unforgettable moments. Olympians have set records, delivered incredible performances, and captured the hearts of millions of fans. There were also some moments where Olympic and American sports intersected.
Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett was present during his girlfriend Chloe Kim’s appearance. Former NFL All-Pro player and famous podcaster Jason Kelce is a huge fan of the American women’s ice hockey team. But in a surprising twist, Lionel Messi made his presence felt despite being thousands of miles away.
American skier Alex Ferreira won gold in the men’s halfpipe on Friday. Ferreira previously won silver at the 2018 Winter Olympics and bronze in 2022. To win the gold medal, Ferreira needed to use Messi, whom he calls his “idol.”
Ferreira has a special place in his heart for Messi. The skier’s father was from Argentina and was a professional soccer player. Ahead of his gold medal bid, Ferreira revealed why he considers Messi a source of inspiration, apart from his connection with Argentina.
“My father and I are big fans of Messi. When Messi won the World Cup, my father cried, and I actually cried a little too. I feel so much sympathy for him in my life, the fact that he won the last World Cup with the last try. And I feel exactly the same for this Olympics. I will give everything I can because this will be my last challenge. So I am praying to my idol, Messi. I know that he will be with me.”
Ferreira, like many of his idols, eventually came out on top. Given that Messi plans to try again at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, perhaps Ferreira may want to do the same at the 2030 Winter Olympics.
