Patrick Mahomes dropped a “GOAT” reaction to Lionel Messi’s World Cup performance at Arrowhead Stadium during the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.

Messi delivered a hat trick in Argentina’s win over Algeria on Tuesday at GEHA Field, and Mahomes shared his reaction after the final whistle of the match.

Mahomes responded with a short message that carried strong meaning. He posted three goat emojis on X after the win, indicating Messi as the greatest of all time.

The Chiefs star watched Messi score three goals in Argentina’s 3- 0 win over Algeria and tie a World Cup scoring record. He attended the match with his wife, Brittany, and saw Messi score in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes.

Messi opened the scoring with a powerful shot from outside the box, added a second goal after a rebound from the goalkeeper, Luca Zidane, and completed his hat trick with a calm finish.

Mahomes has long expressed admiration for Messi and previously met the Argentine star before an Inter Miami match in Kansas City. His three-emoji reaction was the latest example of that respect after another memorable performance on the international stage.

Mahomes shared a personal connection with Messi in 2024 before an MLS match between Inter Miami CF and Sporting Kansas City. Mahomes greeted him and wished him well before the game, as reported by Safid Deen of USA Today.

“What’s up, man? Hey, good luck, man. Have fun out there,” Mahomes said to Messi.

Although the moment quickly shifted attention back to the NFL, where Mahomes now faces high expectations after returning from injury.

While Mahomes took time to celebrate Messi's latest milestone, the Chiefs quarterback is also preparing for a pivotal season of his own in Kansas City.

Patrick Mahomes Tipped for MVP Comeback Season in 2026

ESPN analyst Jason Reid pointed to a strong comeback outlook as  Patrick Mahomes works toward full fitness and a team reset after an injury that ended in 14 games last season.

"Last season, the Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time in Mahomes' nine year career, and he underwent surgery to repair torn ligaments in his left knee," wrote Reid, "No matter. The three time Super Bowl winner will return with a vengeance..."

 Reid noted that Mahomes finished the 2025 season with 11 interceptions, 422 rushing yards, and 5 rushing touchdowns, and completed the season with 3,587 yards and 22 touchdowns.

But with the expectations rising in Kansas City, the Chiefs now look toward a season in which leadership, health, and timing could once again define their path forward.

For one night, though, Mahomes' attention was on the soccer pitch, where Messi's latest World Cup masterclass earned a simple three-emoji endorsement from the Chiefs star.

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Written by

Shreya Mishra

Edited by

Rudra Dubey