In a deeply emotional moment for the football world, Lionel Messi is mourning the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 on August 8 after a prolonged illness. The Argentine superstar has shared a heartfelt statement reflecting on their relationship and the impact his father's passing has had on his life and career.
In his tribute, Messi revealed that it was Jorge who encouraged him to participate in the 2026 World Cup. Messi recalled how his father had urged him to play in the last World Cup, stating, "You asked me so much to play in the last World Cup, and it was in the days just before it started that you got the worst." Despite not winning the tournament, Messi emphasized the joy he experienced in every match, saying, "We weren’t champions, but you have no idea how much we enjoyed every single match. Once again, you were right: I had to be there and play it."
The 39-year-old forward had an impressive performance during the World Cup, scoring in each of Argentina's first five matches, including a hat trick in the opening game. Overall, Messi concluded the tournament with eight goals and four assists across seven matches. However, he expressed frustration over his physical condition as the tournament progressed, admitting, "I wanted to win it to bring it to you and show you a new one. I couldn’t; my legs wouldn’t give any more. This time I tried to go against my body, but I couldn’t. I never managed to feel good."
Following a three-week break after the World Cup, Messi returned to Inter Miami, where he played 37 minutes in a league match against Columbus before making a significant impact in the Leagues Cup against San Luis, scoring two goals and providing an assist. However, he missed a subsequent match due to his father's passing, highlighting the emotional turmoil he is experiencing.
In his poignant statement, Messi expressed uncertainty about his future in football, saying, "I don’t know what I’m going to do without you, I don’t know how to go on. I only played football and now I have quite a few doubts about whether I’ll keep doing it for much longer." This sentiment resonates deeply, as Jorge was not only Messi's father but also his agent and a guiding force throughout his career.
Messi's contract with Inter Miami runs until December 31, 2028, and there has been speculation regarding his potential participation in the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Argentina. This speculation adds another layer to Messi's current reflections on his career and legacy.
Despite the sorrow, Messi concluded his tribute with a message of hope: "I’m going to miss you a lot, but you’ll always be present, and especially in the upbringing of my children, because I teach them and raise them the way you both did with me. Rest in peace and look after us from above the way you did down here. Thank you for everything. I love you, Dad." This heartfelt farewell underscores the deep bond between father and son, and the lasting impact Jorge Messi had on Lionel's life.
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