Tennis legend Novak Djokovic joined millions of fans around the world in wishing football icon Lionel Messi a happy birthday today, June 24. The Serbian star posted a special tribute on Instagram, sharing a photo of the two global sporting giants together and captioning it with the simple but warm message "Feliz cumpleaños", which is Spanish for "Happy Birthday."
The Instagram story featured a previously taken photograph of Djokovic and Messi standing side by side, both smiling, symbolizing mutual respect between two of the greatest athletes of their generation. The gesture from Djokovic was warmly received by fans of both sports, with social media buzzing over the crossover moment between tennis and football royalty.
Image: Novak Djokovic/Instagram
Messi, who turns 38 today, is currently enjoying another chapter of his legendary career with Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi continues to receive love and admiration from across the sporting world and Djokovic’s birthday wish added another special touch to the day’s celebrations.
Known for his love of multiple sports and his admiration for fellow elite athletes, Djokovic has often spoken about the importance of mutual respect and inspiration across disciplines. His simple yet meaningful birthday message to Messi only reinforced the strong bond that top athletes share, regardless of the field or court they play on.
As both champions continue to make history in their respective careers, fans were delighted to see this moment of camaraderie.
'The Only Thing That Gives Me...': Novak Djokovic Reveals True Motivation Behind Extending Career; Video
Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has revealed that winning more Grand Slam titles is no longer his biggest motivation. Instead, what truly drives him now is the chance to represent Serbia at the Olympics, especially the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
Speaking in a recent interview, Djokovic said the Olympic Games hold a special place in his heart. He shared that just being part of the Olympic experience, walking with other athletes in the Olympic Village, and playing for his country gives him the biggest joy.
Djokovic, who has already won 24 Grand Slam titles, said, "The only thing I currently have in my vision, the only thing that gives me motivation, is the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles." He explained that while he still loves competing in Grand Slams and wants to keep winning, the dream of playing in another Olympics gives him a unique kind of energy and purpose.
The 38-year-old Serbian superstar won Olympic gold in Paris in 2024, and now hopes to continue until at least the 2028 Olympics, when he will be 41 years old. Despite his age, Djokovic made it clear that as long as he stays healthy and motivated, he will keep playing the sport he loves.
