Messi returns after father’s death as Inter Miami exit Leagues Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo extended a heartfelt message to Lionel Messi following the passing of the latter's father, Jorge, according to reports from Malaysia. Jorge, aged 68, had succumbed to a prolonged illness, prompting Messi to publish a 599-word emotional tribute to his late father on Wednesday. Despite their famous rivalry, Ronaldo swiftly offered his support to his former teammate.

The Portuguese football star conveyed his condolences on social media, stating, "Huge hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong." Messi, 39, admitted to grappling with the loss, expressing his inability to accept his father's departure and questioning his future in football. "Dad, I still can't believe that you've gone.

I don't fall, or rather, I don't want to fall," Messi wrote, adding that he finds it difficult to imagine a life without his father, who he believed would have many more years to enjoy together. The Argentine footballer also recalled his father's encouragement before the 2022 World Cup, where he urged Messi to continue playing, despite Jorge's declining health.

This prompted Messi to ponder the impact of his father's death on his career, stating, "I don't know what I'm going to do without you, I don't know how to go on." Messi revealed that his relationship with his father was exceptionally close, with Jorge playing a significant role in his career, from his early days at Newell's Old Boys to becoming one of the most decorated footballers globally.

Jorge also served as Messi's agent and contributed to building his international image. The two remained close throughout Messi's career, with Messi often recalling his father's pride in watching him play. "You were by my side from the beginning; there was so little left until the end," Messi wrote, expressing his anguish over his father's passing and questioning why his father couldn't have stayed longer to enjoy their remaining time together.