Football star Lionel Messi has attributed his exceptional sporting skills to being “chosen” by God.

Speaking to the Argentinian podcast Clank, the world champion opened up about his talent, describing it as “a gift” given to him.

"It's very clear to me that I was born like this because God chose me," Messi told Argentinian podcaster Juan Pablo Varsky.

"It was a gift he gave me. I tried to take advantage of it, I did everything possible to squeeze the most out of it. The truth is, although I did many things, I did nothing to become the player that I already was when I was little," he added.

While little is known about Messi’s personal faith, he has never shied away from mentioning God during his interviews. After winning the World Cup last year, he spoke about praying for the victory so he could come full circle with the Argentina national team.

"I asked God, as I have done all my life in everything," he said. 

"Even more so at that moment… I didn't ask my grandmother or Diego [Maradona], but I did ask God, as always.

The sportsman continued: "I knew and sensed that God had something in store for me and it was at a special moment, almost at the end of my career and closing the whole circle of my professional career.

"I thank him every day of my life for this and for everything he has always given me. I can't ask him for anything more because thanks to him I have everything", he explained.

Messi is the most decorated football player of all time. In August, he won his 44th trophy after helping Inter Miami lift the 2023 League Cup. He has also won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards.