At 39, Lionel Messi shines at the World Cup and celebrates his birthday with revelations about his grandmother and Antonela
Argentine star Lionel Messi, who turns 39 this Wednesday (24/6), reached a historic milestone by becoming the top scorer in the World Cups. Argentina’s number 10 found the net five times in the first two matches of the 2026 World Cup, taking his total to 18 goals in six editions of the tournament. The anniversary celebration takes place in the midst of his possible last participation in the championship, where he continues to be a protagonist.
An icon on the pitch: Messi’s journey at the World Cup
With his impressive performance in the current edition, the striker further consolidated his place among football’s greats. In addition to surpassing historic milestones on the field, Messi continues to be the central figure of the Argentine national team, a remarkable feat for an athlete of his age at the highest level of competition.
Grandmother Celia’s inspiration in the Argentine star’s career
Before all his worldwide fame, one person was fundamental to the beginning of Lionel Messi’s football journey: his maternal grandmother, Celia. She insisted that the young Messi be accepted at Grandoli, a local club in Rosario, her hometown. The loss of Celia in 1998, when the player was just 11 years old, is one of his greatest sadnesses, according to the star himself, as she did not witness his resounding success.
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Personal life: meeting Antonela Roccuzzo as a child
Off the pitch, Messi’s life is also marked by unique stories. He met his wife and mother of his three children, Antonela Roccuzzo, when he was just five years old. Over the years, the relationship solidified, and the attacker paid homage to Antonela with several tattoos on his body, highlighting the importance of family in his life.
Messi’s legacy and his decisive presence in the national team
At 39 years old, Messi’s ability to remain at the pinnacle of world football, breaking records and being decisive in a World Cup that could be his last, is a testament to his unparalleled dedication and talent. His longevity in the sport, in an era of high physical and tactical demands, highlights his discipline and continuous adaptation to the game. This persistence at such a high level, beyond mere numbers, reinforces his status as one of the greatest athletes in history, defying time and expectations.
Curiosities that mark the attacker’s trajectory
Despite his resounding success, Messi’s career is full of moments and details less known to the general public. From the unconditional support of his grandmother, who saw him take his first steps in football, to the childhood love that became his family, these elements reveal a more human side of the ball genius. His history off the field is as rich as his achievements on the pitch.
