Paris Saint-Germain star, Lionel Messi says he is filled with immense gratitude whenever he is considered among the best footballers in the world.
He said this in an interview with CNN Sports after winning the Laureaus World Sportsman of the Year award.
The Argentine, 35, said he never had the idea of being considered in the top 10.
While answering questions in the interview, Messi said, “The truth is that it is an honour today to have this award, to be able to enter with many great athletes who are previous winners, to be nominated alongside personalities from other sports is incredible so we are very happy about this recognition.
“Qatar always shows up. It is a very special moment in my career and in my life, and well, there is always a time to remember that moment in the World Cup which we enjoyed a lot for a month.
“There are always nice memories left and it’s going to be for life.”
On his achievement, he said, “I never had this idea in my career and I didn’t look for it, just to have my name considered in the top 10, 5 or 3 is crazy. I didn’t play football for that purpose but of course, I feel grateful when people think of me this way and honestly, I don’t care what kind of position it is.”