Lionel Messi says not certain to play "much longer" after father's death

Lionel Messi expressed uncertainty about continuing his professional football career following the death of his father, Jorge, who passed away last week at age 68 after a prolonged illness. The former Barcelona and Argentina star shared his emotional state on social media, revealing deep personal turmoil over losing a central figure in his life. His father, who had been a constant presence throughout his career, died at a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina. Messi’s post on Instagram reflected both sorrow and introspection, as he questioned whether he would continue playing football for much longer. Jorge Messi was a pivotal figure in Lionel’s journey, supporting him since his early days at Barcelona. As a dedicated parent and mentor, he often acted as his son’s representative during the early stages of his career. The relationship between father and son was deeply intertwined with Messi’s success, with the elder Messi frequently encouraging his son to pursue football relentlessly. In recent years, however, the bond became more emotionally charged, particularly as the younger Messi faced the challenges of maintaining peak performance at 39. Messi’s emotional state was further compounded by his participation in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina finished as runners-up to Spain after a dramatic extra-time defeat in the final. During the tournament, he spoke openly about the impact of his father’s passing. He recalled that his father had wished for him to compete in the last World Cup, a sentiment that motivated him to participate despite his worsening health. “You always asked me to play in the last World Cup,” Messi said, adding that his father’s condition deteriorated shortly before the competition began. Throughout the World Cup, Messi experienced moments of profound emotion, including a tearful celebration after scoring a hat-trick in the opening match against Algeria. He later explained that his tears were not solely related to football but stemmed from a period of personal difficulty. Despite his efforts to perform at the highest level, he admitted that his body was no longer able to sustain the demands of the sport. “My legs couldn’t go on anymore,” he said, expressing frustration at being unable to secure a second World Cup victory for his country. Despite the overwhelming grief, Messi has vowed to honor his father’s legacy by instilling similar values in his own children. He emphasized that while he would miss his father dearly, the lessons learned from their relationship would remain with him. “I’m going to miss you so much, but you will always be present, especially in the upbringing of my children,” he said, highlighting the enduring influence of his father’s guidance. As Messi continues to navigate this challenging period, the focus remains on balancing personal mourning with professional obligations. While he has not yet announced any retirement plans, his public statements suggest a shift in perspective regarding his future in football. The emotional weight of his father’s passing appears to have prompted a deeper reflection on the meaning of his career and the role it has played in his life. For now, the world watches as Messi seeks to find clarity amid the ongoing process of healing.