Novak Djokovic could join Messi at World Cup final after landing in the United States
ATPThursday, 16 July 2026 at 22:00
Novak Djokovic could be among the star guests watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup final this Sunday, with the tennis legend expected to be in the New York area and potentially attending the decisive match between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
According to Tennis World USA, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has already confirmed a trip to the United States for commitments unrelated to tennis, creating the possibility of him extending his stay and attending one of the biggest sporting events of the year. The final is scheduled for July 19 at 3:00 p.m. ET, and Djokovic would have the opportunity to watch the match from one of the stadium’s VIP areas.
The Serbian’s connection with football has been well documented throughout his career, but his relationship with Lionel Messi has added another layer of interest to a potential World Cup final appearance.
Djokovic and Messi have crossed paths several times, with the Argentine star previously attending one of the Serbian’s matches and Djokovic openly praising the football icon.
Djokovic, Messi and a mutual admiration between two sporting icons
Djokovic is currently in the United States after a busy period following Wimbledon, where he reached the semifinals before falling to eventual champion Jannik Sinner. Before traveling across the Atlantic, the Serbian visited Bosnia and Herzegovina to participate in the inauguration of Ivan Dodig’s new tennis center, alongside several figures from the sport.
The possible World Cup final appearance comes after several years of mutual respect between Djokovic and Messi, two athletes widely considered among the greatest competitors in their respective sports.
During the 2025 Miami Open, Messi attended Djokovic’s semifinal victory over Grigor Dimitrov from the stands. The Argentine legend, then playing for Inter Miami, watched the Serbian deliver a dominant performance at the ATP Masters 1000 event.
“It is a great honour to play, probably for the first time, in front of him live,” Djokovic said about Messi after the match. “I admired him, of course, as most of the world, for most of his career and it is amazing he still keeps going.”
Djokovic also highlighted a personal connection between the two athletes, noting that they were born in the same year. “We are actually the same age, born in 1987, so it is nice to have him around,” the Serbian added.
The tennis star has also previously made clear his admiration for Messi when discussing the biggest sporting figures in history. During the Monte Carlo Masters week, Djokovic took part in a selection game with the ATP Tour and Overtime, choosing between some of the most famous athletes across different sports.
After initially selecting Tom Brady due to their personal relationship, Djokovic was asked to choose between the NFL legend and Messi.
“Sorry, Tom. Messi,” Djokovic said with a laugh.
When asked to choose between himself and the Argentine footballer, Djokovic once again selected Messi.
Djokovic’s busy schedule before the US Open preparation
Djokovic’s potential attendance at the World Cup final comes during a short break after his Wimbledon campaign. The Serbian reached the last four at the All England Club after surviving a five-set quarterfinal battle against Felix Auger-Aliassime, before losing to Sinner in the semifinals for the second consecutive year.
Following his Wimbledon exit, Djokovic returned to the court in a relaxed environment in Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he participated in an exhibition match celebrating the opening of Ivan Dodig’s tennis center, alongside Marin Cilic and Boris Becker.
The Serbian is now preparing for the North American hard-court swing ahead of the US Open, where he will continue his pursuit of another Grand Slam title. Before returning fully to tennis, Djokovic could have the chance to enjoy another major sporting spectacle — this time from the football stands, potentially supporting Argentina and one of his most admired sporting figures, Lionel Messi.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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