Lionel Messi hailed as GOAT sparks goat mascot tribute in Kansas City

Argentina's football star Lionel Messi has been widely referred to as the "GOAT" – Greatest Of All Time – following his standout performances at the 2022 World Cup, where he scored five goals in two matches.

In Kansas City, Missouri, a goat named "Messi" was introduced as part of the Goats Gone Green urban‑greening project. The animal, dressed in an Argentine jersey, helps clear invasive vegetation along the Berkley Riverfront trail without using herbicides. Project manager Kyle Alvis said the goat’s nickname ties the local clean‑up effort to the global excitement around Messi’s World Cup success.

The dual use of the GOAT term illustrates how Messi’s fame has entered popular culture, prompting fans worldwide to create merchandise, banners and even animal mascots in his honor.