World sports stars react to shocking Barcelona terrorist attack

The world's biggest names in sport have shared their condolences with the victims of the Barcelona terrorist attack.

Barcelona FC striker Lionel Messi was one of many sports stars to post a heartfelt message of support to those affected by the shocking events.

“I want to send my condolences and all my support to the families and friends of the victims of the terrible attack in our beloved Barcelona, in addition to totally rejecting any act of violence,” Messi wrote in Spanish on Instagram.

“We are not going to give up, there are many more of us who want to live in a world in peace, without hate and where respect and tolerance are the basis of coexistence."

Messi's teammates took to social media immediately after the attack which claimed 16 lives and left 100 more injured.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal, who recently re-claimed the number one spot in world tennis rankings, was also moved by the horrific attack.

“Shattered by what has happened in Barcelona! All my support for the families affected and the city,” Nadal said. 

Many athletes globally shared similar tributes and supportive posts online.