Michael Jordan Compared to Messi After Argentina’s World Cup Win: Ex-NBA Star Reacts

Former U.S. soccer player **Taylor Twellman** called **Lionel Messi** greater than **Michael Jordan**, Serena Williams and Tiger Woods after Argentina beat England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup semifinal on 14 July 2026.

Argentina’s victory booked their place in the World Cup final. Enzo Fernández equalized in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martínez scored the winner in the 92nd. England had led 1-0 through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute, but Argentina capitalized after England switched to a defensive shape.

How Twellman ranked Messi against Jordan

Twellman made the bold claim on Yahoo Sports on 14 July 2026. He said he struggled to find words to describe how Jordan shone in the biggest moments. “I grew up watching **Michael Jordan**, OK? And if I was trying to articulate Michael Jordan, I don’t know if I would have found the words consistently of when the moment is the biggest, when the lights are the brightest, how does this player shine?”

He added that Messi’s endurance was extraordinary. “He ran over 6 miles in the knockout stage every game.”

What the comparison means for Michael Jordan

Jordan’s legacy in NBA basketball remains unmatched in clutch moments. The five-time MVP delivered 214 game-winning shots, including six Finals Game 7s. His 1998 championship-winning shot over Bryon Russell is etched in sports lore.

Twellman’s statement reframed Jordan’s standing not as the undisputed GOAT across sports, but as a peer in a debate fueled by Messi’s latest peak. The comparison hinges on sustained excellence under pressure, not absolute supremacy.

Where the debate goes next

Twellman’s remarks arrived as Messi, 39, closes in on the World Cup title. Argentina will face either France or Germany in the final on 19 July 2026. The game will air on Fox Sports and Telemundo.

Serena Williams, meanwhile, returned to tennis at Wimbledon on 1 July 2026. She lost her opener 6-3, 6-7(8), 6-3 to Maya Joint and withdrew from doubles due to a knee injury. She drained fluid from the knee after the match, per her Instagram post.

Tiger Woods did not comment on the debate. Woods last won a major in 2019 and remains sidelined by injuries.

Why the timing matters

The timing of Twellman’s claim amplifies Messi’s current run. Messi leads the tournament in goals (7) and assists (3) at 39 years old. Argentina’s semifinal win extended their unbeaten streak to 33 games.

For Jordan’s legacy, the debate spotlights how his era-defining dominance is now measured against cross-sport icons. It’s a reminder that greatness is often framed by the moment, not the sport.