Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has admitted he is uncertain whether he will continue playing professional football following the passing of his father, manager, and close advisor, Jorge Messi, who died on Saturday at age 68 following a prolonged illness.
In a tribute published on Instagram, the 39-year-old eight-time Ballon d’Or winner reflected on the emotional toll of playing in the recent World Cup—where Argentina reached the final against Spain—while his father’s health rapidly deteriorated. Messi shared that his father was unable to attend the tournament due to his illness, describing it as the first time his father was absent from such a milestone in his career.
Longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo sent a public message of support following the announcement, expressing his condolences to Messi and his family.
Read more about this topic: Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, dies at 68
Jorge Messi played a pivotal role throughout his son’s career, serving as his first childhood coach in Argentina, managing his transition to FC Barcelona in 2000, and overseeing his professional contracts and financial matters throughout his time with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi returned to competitive action on Wednesday, appearing as a second-half substitute for Inter Miami in a 3-2 Leagues Cup loss against Mexican club León.
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