Now Reading: Messi Doubts Future After Father’s Death, Ronaldo Offers Support
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Messi Doubts Future After Father’s Death, Ronaldo Offers Support
Messi Doubts Future After Father’s Death, Ronaldo Offers Support
Lionel Messi has said he has 'serious doubts' about continuing to play football after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, on 8 August. Jorge, 68, died after a long illness in…
The Story in Brief
Lionel Messi has said he has 'serious doubts' about continuing to play football after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, on 8 August. Jorge, 68, died after a long illness in Rosario. In an emotional Instagram post on 12 August, Messi wrote that he could not imagine life without his father, who was also his agent and lifelong supporter. He revealed that Jorge had urged him to play in the 2026 World Cup, but that his father's condition worsened days before the tournament. Argentina reached the final but lost 1-0 to Spain. Messi said he wanted to win the trophy for his father but could not physically push himself. Cristiano Ronaldo commented on the post, writing: 'Huge hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong.'
The Indian Opinion
The instant narrative is that Messi is retiring. His own words say he has 'serious doubts', not a decision. The second lazy take is that the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry is somehow 'over.' Ronaldo's public hug shows mutual respect, not a truce. Both men have always been professionals. The real test: will Messi play for Inter Miami next season? His contract runs till 2028. Watch his first match back. That will show us more than any Instagram post.
Sources (10): sports.ndtv.com, ndtvprofit.com, timesofindia.indiatimes.com, thehindu.com, livemint.com, timesnownews.com, timesnownews.com (2), timesofindia.indiatimes.com (2), hindustantimes.com, hindustantimes.com (2)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 10 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 10 sources.
