📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Voltmetro
Sports
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma calls Lionel Messi's retirement the end of an era
✍️ India Today NE
🗓 01 Sep 2026, 12:18 AM
👁 3
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma paid an emotional tribute to Argentine legend Lionel Messi after the football star announced his retirement from international football.
Assam's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, expressed deep admiration for Lionel Messi on social media following the Argentine forward's decision to quit international football. In a heartfelt post, Sarma described Messi's career as a "once‑in‑a‑generation" journey that has inspired millions, including fans in the northeastern state.
Sarma highlighted Messi's record‑breaking achievements – multiple Ballon d'Or awards, a World Cup win and countless club titles – and noted how the player's humility and work ethic resonated with Indian youth. He concluded by wishing the 36‑year‑old a successful next chapter in club football and beyond.
The tribute quickly garnered widespread attention online, with many Indian fans echoing the CM's sentiment that an era of football brilliance had drawn to a close. While the message was personal, it underscored the growing impact of global sports icons on regional audiences across India.
Sarma highlighted Messi's record‑breaking achievements – multiple Ballon d'Or awards, a World Cup win and countless club titles – and noted how the player's humility and work ethic resonated with Indian youth. He concluded by wishing the 36‑year‑old a successful next chapter in club football and beyond.
The tribute quickly garnered widespread attention online, with many Indian fans echoing the CM's sentiment that an era of football brilliance had drawn to a close. While the message was personal, it underscored the growing impact of global sports icons on regional audiences across India.