Messi Mourns Father's Death, Questions Football Future at 39
On.cc · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has taken to social media to mourn the death of his father Jorge, expressing deep grief and uncertainty about his football career at age 39. The post included a photo of the father and son together. Longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo also offered his condolences, leaving a supportive message on Messi's tribute post.
Key Points
- Messi shared a heartfelt message on social media mourning his father Jorge, who passed away at age 68, saying he does not know how to move forward without him
- The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner expressed doubt about continuing his football career, writing he is "very doubting how much longer I can continue"
- Cristiano Ronaldo, who lost his own father to alcoholism-related liver disease when he was 20, left a touching message saying "In this difficult time, I want to give you and your family a big hug. Leo, stay strong!"
- Messi revealed his father's health worsened before the World Cup began, and this was the first major tournament his father did not accompany him to
- Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final, with Messi stating afterward that his "legs could no longer support" him
Why It Matters
Messi's emotional post signals the profound personal loss facing one of football's greatest players at a crossroads in his storied career . The touching gesture from longtime rival Ronaldo demonstrates sportsmanship transcending competition, resonating with fans worldwide who witnessed two football icons show mutual respect in a difficult moment .
Messi's emotional post signals the profound personal loss facing one of football's greatest players at a crossroads in his storied career . The touching gesture from longtime rival Ronaldo demonstrates sportsmanship transcending competition, resonating with fans worldwide who witnessed two football icons show mutual respect in a difficult moment .