'Doing Naked Pull-Ups': Lionel Messi’s Inter-Miami Teammate Reveals Competitive Nature Of Eight-Time Ballon d'Or Winner

Veteran Argentine goalkeeper Oscar Ustari who joined fellow countryman Lionel Messi at Chase Stadium in September 2024, lifted the lid on the legendary player's competitive nature. According to Goal.com report while speaking to DSports Radio he revealed “Messi is unbearably competitive, he is incredible at everything. There are team-mates who had never seen him and are surprised. Nothing is a coincidence at that level. You see that his passion is football, training, being well and showing every day who he is.”

Ustari further added, “He has fun doing what he does. The first day I arrived at the club he was doing pull-ups buck naked, and all the guys were around him. He treats everyone equally, he's very family-oriented. He's a person who generates a lot for everyone. He is very involved in the academy, he is aware of everything. That is how I see it.”

Messi skips Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony

Lionel Messi could not be present in person at the White House to receive the US' highest civilian award -- the Presidential Medal of Freedom -- from outgoing President Joe Biden. Messi is the first Argentine to receive the honor and the first male soccer player. Due to a scheduling conflict, Argentinian football legend and global soccer icon was unable to attend the event.

On Messi being awarded the prestigious medal, the White House said, "the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer. He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador."

Messi moved to the USA in 2023 summer as he signed a deal with Inter Miami and he secured the Leagues Cup title with his team. In the second season, the David Beckham co-owned club secured the MLS Supporters Shield but could not secure the MLS Cup 2024 after they lost to Atlanta United in the playoffs.