Lionel Messi hints playing career is nearing end with emotional tribute to father
Grieving superstar says he is unsure about playing on “much longer” after death of his father; Emotional tribute reveals depth of their relationship, with skipper saying he doesn’t know “how to go on.” Leer más
Lionel Messi, the renowned football player and Argentina's national team captain, has expressed his doubts about continuing his career due to the recent passing of his father, Jorge Messi. The 39-year-old superstar and his father shared a close relationship, with Jorge serving as his father figure and agent throughout Lionel's life.
Jorge passed away at the age of 68, reportedly battling cancer. The emotional tribute from Messi came in the form of a heartfelt message on social media, where he detailed his struggles and the impact of his father's death on his life and career.
In his message, Messi recalled the final months of his father's life, which coincided with the 2026 World Cup. Jorge had urged his son to play in the World Cup, despite his deteriorating health. Messi described his father's last moments as heartbreaking, as he missed the final match due to his declining health. The footballer expressed his regret for not being able to play at his best and bring his third World Cup trophy to his father, as he had previously hoped to do.
Messi's father played a pivotal role in his life and career, guiding him from Argentina's modest football pitches to the pinnacle of world football. From accompanying Lionel to every training session to serving as his agent, Jorge was always there for his son, leaving behind a lasting impact on Lionel's journey. Messi pledged to pass on the values he learned from his parents to his three sons, ensuring that Jorge's influence would continue in their lives.
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
