Washington: US President Barack Obama has compared himself to Barcelona striker Lionel Messi at a White House awards ceremony.
The Colorado Rapids, champions of US Major League Soccer, presented Obama on Monday with a No 10 jersey.
"That is me and Messi. We're right up there. Absolutely," Obama said to laughter.
Obama described himself to the Colorado players and officials as "a soccer dad, myself. I have watched my share of games over the years."
His daughters, Malia and Sasha, play football.
Messi led Barcelona to a 3-1 victory over Manchester United in the Champions League final last month, and he's in Argentina preparing for the Copa America.
Barcelona will play United in a friendly in Washington on July 30.
Bureau Report
First Published: Thursday, June 30, 2011, 09:48