Lionel Messi has cast doubt on his football future after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, aged 68.
A Father's Influence
Jorge had been Messi's father, long-time representative and adviser, playing a major role in his career from his early days in Argentina through his rise to global stardom. He accompanied his son during his early football journey and later managed his contracts and business affairs. Jorge's influence remained significant even after Messi became one of the most decorated players in football history.
Messi said losing his father had left him struggling to imagine how to continue without him, particularly because football had been such a central part of their lives. "I don't know what I'm going to do without you, I don't know how to continue. I only played football and now I have a lot of doubts about continuing for much longer," Messi said in the tribute.
A Hefty Burden
Messi also revealed how heavily his father's illness affected him during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He said one reason he played in the tournament was to fulfil Jorge's wish, while his father had hoped to attend the competition. Argentina reached the World Cup final but lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time. Messi, who had broken down in tears during the tournament, later acknowledged the emotional difficulty of trying to compete while worrying about his father.
The emotional burden of his father's illness weighed heavily on Messi during the tournament, forcing him to confront the possibility of life without football. He said he would carry his father's values into raising his own children, ensuring that Jorge's influence remains with him even after his passing.
A Rival's Sympathy
The emotional tribute drew support from across football, including Messi's long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo responded to Messi's post with a message of sympathy, writing: "A huge hug to you and yours in these tough times, Leo. Much strength." The gesture was notable given the rivalry between the two football legends, who spent more than a decade competing for the biggest individual and team honours in the sport.
The message from Ronaldo highlights the deep respect and admiration that exists between the two football stars, despite their intense rivalry on the pitch. For now, Messi remains an Inter Miami player, but his emotional admission has left his future uncertain.
Source: Pulse.ng
