Modi- Fridman Podcast: Modi picks The Greatest Football Player

Modi- Fridman Podcast: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and American podcaster Lex Fridman recently had a podcast interview. In this podcast, Modi was asked several questions about his work front as well as his personal, spiritual spheres of life. The podcast also touched upon the widely debated topic of the greatest football player of all time. While he did not declare a definitive “GOAT,” his response acknowledged the evolution of greatness across generations.

Modi stated that during the 1980s, Diego Maradona was a legendary figure who captured the imagination of football fans worldwide. His iconic performances, especially in the 1986 World Cup, cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest. Modi recognized that for many, Maradona is an ideal figure for football excellence.

He also acknowledged that perceptions change over time. In today’s era, Lionel Messi is often regarded as the greatest by the younger generation. His consistency, technical brilliance, and leadership, culminating in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory, have solidified his status among footballing legends.

Modi’s response reflected an understanding that greatness in sports is not absolute but subjective, shaped by personal experiences and generational shifts. He did not dismiss other legends like Pelé, Cristiano Ronaldo, or Johan Cruyff but focused on how different players define excellence in different periods.

His remarks also highlighted football’s global appeal, transcending borders and cultures. While India may not be a dominant footballing nation, the sport continues to inspire millions across the country. Modi’s acknowledgment of this debate shows how even global sports conversations find relevance in India’s cultural discourse.

“I think sports have the power to energize the entire world. The spirit of sports brings people together across different nations. That’s why I would never want to see sports being discredited. I truly believe that sports play a major role in human evolution, they’re not just games; they connect people on a deeper level,” Modi said. He also shared a story about Shahdol in Madhya Pradesh, where football is so deeply rooted that locals call it ‘Mini Brazil’.