Lionel Messi has sent a heartfelt message to Argentina’s history-making Olympic gold medallist Jose Torres Gil.

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Football icon watching on from afarContinuing his recovery from injuryDelighting in the exploits of compatriotsGettyWHAT HAPPENED?

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has taken his record-setting collection of major honours to 45, knows all about claiming gold at the Olympic Games. He achieved that feat himself on the football field back in 2008.

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Messi is now watching the action unfold from afar, with the 2024 Games taking place in Paris – a city he knows well from his time at Ligue 1 giants PSG. The World Cup winner has plenty of time on his hands at present as he recovers from an ankle injury that is preventing him from figuring for MLS side Inter Miami.

WHAT MESSI SAID

Messi was among those that tuned in for the final of the men’s BMX freestyle event. Gil was considered to be an outsider in that competition, but posted a score of 94.82 in his first run – which was enough to claim the ultimate prize. Messi has said in a message on social media: “Congratulations, enjoy that gold very much.”

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Gil has said of conquering the world in his chosen profession: “Total craziness, it brought tears to my eyes. The level was extraordinary. The best athletes of the planet were here in Paris. I competed against the best of the world and I felt incredible; I feel part of this incredible universe.”