Is Diego Maradona the Greatest Footballer of All Time?

Is Maradona the Best Ever? A Deep Dive into His Legacy

The Genius of Diego Maradona

Diego Maradona, a name synonymous with football brilliance, has earned a special place in the hearts of millions around the globe. But the question that has lingered for decades is: Is Maradona the best footballer ever?

As someone who's spent hours watching Maradona's magical moments, I can’t help but feel a mix of awe and nostalgia. His talent transcended football itself, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history. But how does he compare to other legends like Pelé, Messi, or Cristiano Ronaldo? Let’s dive into what made Maradona so special.

Maradona’s Magic: The 1986 World Cup

The Hand of God and the Goal of the Century

One of the most iconic moments in football history took place in the 1986 World Cup. Maradona’s "Hand of God" goal, although controversial, is still etched in football lore. But what made that World Cup truly unforgettable was his second goal against England. In the same match, Maradona scored what is still considered the "Goal of the Century." Dribbling past five England players to score is a feat that remains unmatched by anyone. It’s moments like these that make Maradona’s legacy stand out.

I remember watching that goal as a kid, and honestly, even now, when I see clips of it, I get chills. The pure joy and madness of that moment—the way he defied all odds—showed a unique kind of genius.

His Influence Beyond the World Cup

But let’s not get too caught up in one tournament. Maradona’s impact on the football world extended far beyond the 1986 World Cup. His leadership at Napoli, where he led the club to its first Serie A titles in 1987 and 1990, cemented his legacy as one of the best in club football. Maradona was more than just a player; he was a catalyst for a generation, a symbol of hope for many in Argentina and Italy.

The Debate: Maradona vs. Messi

Is Messi’s Consistency Better Than Maradona’s Magic?

Now, if we’re comparing Maradona to Lionel Messi—another Argentinian great—it becomes a bit tricky. Messi's career has been defined by its consistency, breaking countless records in both club and international football. He’s often seen as the "modern-day Maradona," with many similarities in style, vision, and dribbling prowess. But Messi has always had the luxury of playing with some of the world's top players around him, especially at Barcelona.

Maradona, on the other hand, often played with less-talented teams, carrying them on his back. Yes, Messi has more titles, but Maradona’s flair, charisma, and larger-than-life persona are what set him apart.

I’ve had conversations with friends who swear by Messi, pointing out his incredible consistency and longevity. But then again, I know just as many people who believe Maradona’s raw ability, particularly in that 1986 World Cup, trumps anything Messi has achieved.

The Passion: Maradona’s Heart vs. Messi’s Precision

What I’ve noticed in discussions about Maradona versus Messi is that people aren’t just talking about football skills—they’re talking about the passion. Maradona played with his heart on his sleeve. His intensity, his temperament, his fiery personality—it all added to the mystique surrounding him. Messi, while brilliant, is more reserved, a silent maestro orchestrating his team’s play.

It’s the passion that makes people like Maradona "the best." That sense of urgency, the determination in his eyes, and that unmatched desire to win—those qualities resonate more with the average football fan.

Is Maradona the Best Ever?

The Unmatched Charisma of Maradona

Well, this is where things get subjective. Is Maradona the best ever? It depends on how you define "best." If you're looking for raw talent, passion, and a moment in time that changed the football world forever, Maradona might just be the best. His unique personality, his highs, and his lows, made him more than just a footballer—he was an icon, a revolutionary figure in the sport.

But let’s not forget other legends like Pelé and even contemporary stars like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Pelé, with his three World Cups, arguably defined football greatness for his generation. Messi and Ronaldo, with their statistical achievements, have been extraordinary in their own right.

My Verdict: Maradona’s Undeniable Influence

Honestly, it’s impossible to choose just one "best" player. But when you think about the cultural impact, the sheer joy of watching Maradona play, and his influence on football in Argentina and around the world, I’d say he holds a special place in history.

Maybe the best way to put it is this: Maradona wasn't just a footballer—he was a hero, a story, a myth, a legend. And in the hearts of millions, that might just make him the best ever.

So, what's your take? Do you think Maradona's magic outweighs the consistency of Messi, or is there another player who deserves that title? The debate will probably continue forever, but one thing is for sure—Maradona’s place in football history is secure.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.