Gitika Talukar, the only accredited Indian female photojournalist covering the 2026 World Cup, has described the ongoing celebrations for Lionel Messi in the United States as a unique and deeply emotional experience. Based in Seoul, Talukar shared her perspectives on the atmosphere surrounding Messi’s farewell tour during an interview, highlighting the differences between the current events and those of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Talukar noted that the fervor in the United States is remarkable but distinct from the intensity witnessed in Qatar. “In Qatar, every Argentina match felt like a once-in-a-lifetime mission,” she explained, emphasizing how fans filled stadiums adorned in Argentina’s national colors, singing continuously in support of Messi’s quest to secure his first World Cup title. The 2022 tournament was marked by high stakes and palpable tension, with every goal and save provoking overwhelming emotion among spectators.

By contrast, the celebrations in the US carry a more festive tone centered around gratitude. Argentina supporters have traveled across North America to attend matches, joined by many fans who developed a closer affinity for Messi following his move to Major League Soccer. While still passionate, the atmosphere now is less about pressure and more about honoring Messi’s extraordinary career. Fans are celebrating the champion they admire, rather than anxiously hoping for a historic victory.

For Talukar, covering Messi in both contexts has been a profound professional opportunity. She highlighted that the most compelling photographs are often those capturing the emotions of supporters—the tears, smiles, and shared celebrations—rather than the on-field action alone. “Football is about people, and Messi has inspired millions across generations,” she said, reflecting on the 2022 World Cup’s unforgettable moments when fans cheered together and believed they were witnessing history.

Regarding the current World Cup, Talukar described it as a grand farewell party for Messi, regardless of whether the player has officially confirmed it as his final tournament. The atmosphere at Argentina’s games feels like a worldwide tribute to Messi’s contributions to football, with each appearance treated as a historic occasion. Fans express a sense of collective awareness that opportunities to see Messi represent Argentina are becoming increasingly limited.

Although Messi has maintained a measured stance about his future, the overwhelming emotion from supporters underscores the significance of this chapter in his illustrious international career. The celebrations in the United States reflect both an appreciation of Messi’s past achievements and a heartfelt farewell to one of football’s greatest players.