Messi unsure on extending career after father's death

Lionel Messi is contemplating the end of his football career after his father, Jorge, passed away last week at the age of 68. The Argentine footballer expressed his uncertainty and grief in a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying, "I don't know what I'm going to do without you." Messi's father had been by his side since the beginning of his professional career, acting as a constant source of support.

Messi revealed that one of the motivations behind playing in the 2018 World Cup was his father's desire, whom he held in high regard. The 39-year-old captain admitted that his father's declining health was a significant concern, as he had requested Messi to participate in the tournament just a few days before his deteriorating condition worsened.

Messi's emotional state during the World Cup was marked by a combination of joy and sorrow, with tears shed not only for winning but also for his father's absence. Despite his father's untimely death, Messi pledged to honor his memory by raising his own children in the same nurturing way his father did.