Messi says not certain to play ‘much longer’ after father’s death

BUENOS AIRES: Lionel Messi revealed on Wednesday that he harbors serious doubts about continuing his football career for much longer, following the untimely death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68. The Argentine superstar, who won his country's 2022 World Cup, expressed his emotional turmoil in a social media post, stating, "I don't know what I'll do without you, I don't know how to go on."

The 39-year-old footballer, whose contract with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami is set to run until the end of 2028, reflected on his father's final months, which overlapped with the 2026 World Cup. Messi recounted how he had promised his father that they would reach the final so he could accompany him to the United States, but lamented that his father was unable to be present.

Messi, who returned to the US just after his father's funeral, admitted that he pushed his physical limits during the final against Spain, but ultimately failed. He expressed that he never felt right during the match. Messi emphasized the profound impact his father had on his life and career, describing him as a father, a friend, and an agent who was always exactly who Messi needed him to be.

The news of Jorge Messi's passing had already raised concerns as the family requested privacy and humanity during the 2022 World Cup, amid rumors about the father's health. Following Messi's heartfelt tribute, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said goodbye to his father during a private ceremony attended by close family members and a few Argentina teammates in the town of Perez, near Rosario.

The cause of death remains undisclosed, but local media reported that Jorge Messi had been battling cancer.