Obama compares himself to Messi

President Barack Obama compared himself to Barcelona striker Lionel Messi at a White House awards ceremony on Tuesday.

The Colorado Rapids, champions of U.S. Major League Soccer, presented Obama with a No. 10 jersey, a number also sported by Messi on his Barcelona 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.