'Leo, stay strong': Ronaldo sends message to Messi after father's death

Lionel Messi expressed his grief over the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, last week. The 68-year-old Jorge succumbed to a prolonged illness. In an emotional statement, Lionel recalled his father's wish for him to participate in one more World Cup. Jorge's condition deteriorated just days before the tournament commenced. Lionel's mother continually assured him that his father would recover and be present to watch him.

Messi's father had promised him that they would reach the World Cup final, so Jorge could travel to watch the match. Messi had promised himself that he would reach the final so that Jorge could attend the game. From the onset of each match, Messi would eagerly await his father's message. The growing absence of such messages prompted Messi to realize the seriousness of his father's condition.

Messi's team, Argentina, managed to reach the final, but Jorge could not attend the match. Despite his best efforts, Messi was unable to push his body beyond its limits and win the trophy for his father. "I couldn't stop thinking about going as far as possible, giving you more time and the chance to watch one of the games," Messi expressed.

"I never managed to feel physically right." Messi acknowledged their efforts, saying, "We didn't become champions Dad, but you have no idea how much we enjoyed every match. Once again, you were right: I had to be there and play in it... as you told me, always."