Lionel Andrés Messi, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, is a professional footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Known for his incredible skill, vision, and goal-scoring ability, Messi has had a remarkable impact on football worldwide.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lionel Andrés Messi |
| Date of Birth | June 24, 1987 |
| Age | 36 years (as of 2024) |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $600 million (varies with sources) |
| Career Goals | Over 800 career goals (exact number varies by source) |
| Awards | – Ballon d’Or: 8 times |
| – FIFA World Player of the Year: 1 time | |
| – UEFA Champions League: 4 titles | |
| – Domestic League Titles: Multiple (La Liga, Ligue 1) | |
| – Copa América: 2021 (Argentina) | |
| – FIFA World Cup: 2022 (Argentina) | |
| Wife/Partner | Antonela Roccuzzo (married in 2017) |
| Children | Three: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro |
| Cars | Owns a collection including brands like Ferrari, Maserati, and Audi |
Early Life
Messi grew up in a close-knit family, with his father working as a steel factory manager and his mother as a cleaner. He showed an early talent for football, joining the local club Grandoli at a young age. At age 6, he joined Newell’s Old Boys, where he quickly gained recognition for his abilities.
At the age of 11, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. His family struggled to afford the treatment, leading them to seek opportunities abroad. In 2000, Messi moved to Spain to join FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, where the club agreed to pay for his medical treatment.
Professional Career
- FC Barcelona (2004–2021): Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004 at just 17 years old. Over the next 17 years, he became the club’s all-time leading scorer, winning numerous domestic and international titles, including:
- La Liga: 10 titles
- UEFA Champions League: 4 titles
- Copa del Rey: 7 titles During his time at Barcelona, Messi won the Ballon d’Or multiple times, cementing his status as a footballing legend.
- Paris Saint-Germain (2021–2023): In August 2021, Messi joined PSG after financial constraints prevented Barcelona from renewing his contract. He continued to showcase his talent, contributing significantly to the team.
- Inter Miami CF (2023–present): In 2023, Messi moved to Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, further expanding his global influence.
Achievements
- Ballon d’Or: 8 times (as of 2024)
- FIFA World Cup: 2022 (Argentina)
- Copa América: 2021 (Argentina)
- FIFA Best Player: Multiple awards
- Numerous league and cup titles throughout his career
Personal Life
Messi is married to Antonela Roccuzzo, his childhood sweetheart. The couple has three children: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. Known for his humble demeanor, Messi has also engaged in various philanthropic efforts, including his foundation that supports children’s education and health initiatives.
Legacy
Lionel Messi’s legacy extends beyond his record-breaking statistics. His artistry on the field, combined with his sportsmanship and humility, has inspired millions of fans worldwide. As a symbol of excellence in football, Messi’s name is synonymous with the sport itself, making him a true icon.
Summary
Lionel Messi, born in Rosario, Argentina, is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time. Known for his incredible dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability, he spent the majority of his career at FC Barcelona, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer. After a successful stint in Europe, he joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021 before moving to Inter Miami CF in 2023. Messi’s accolades and contributions to football have solidified his legacy as a true legend of the sport.
