Lionel Messi has opened up about the emotional impact of losing his father, Jorge Messi, admitting that his death has left him questioning whether he will continue playing football for much longer.
The Argentina captain paid an emotional tribute to his father on Wednesday, sharing a photograph of them together on Instagram. Messi said he was still struggling to accept that his father was gone.
He recalled the close bond they shared and said he knew Jorge had been suffering from illness, but still wished they had more time together.
Messi also remembered how much his father wanted to see him play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the football star, Jorge’s condition worsened shortly before the tournament, although the family remained hopeful that he would recover enough to attend some of the matches.
The Inter Miami forward said he often found himself waiting for a message from his father after Argentina’s games, only to remember that he was no longer able to communicate with him.
Messi also reflected on Argentina’s run to the World Cup final. He had hoped to win the trophy and bring it home for his father, but admitted that his body could not give him everything he needed during the tournament.
The 38-year-old revealed that his father initially believed Argentina had lost the final on penalties when Messi returned home. Despite not being able to celebrate the tournament together, Messi said they had still enjoyed the matches and shared many memorable moments.
The loss has now left the football legend uncertain about his future in the sport.
Messi said football had been his entire life, but his father’s death had made him seriously question whether he wanted to continue playing for much longer.
Jorge was far more than Messi’s father. He was also his friend and agent and played an important role throughout his son’s career. Messi said he would carry his father’s influence into the way he raises his own children.
He thanked Jorge for standing by him from the beginning of his career and promised that his father’s memory would remain a part of his life.
Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness. He was instrumental in his son’s development, including helping him obtain treatment for a growth hormone deficiency and supporting his move from Argentina to Barcelona at the age of 13.
He remained closely involved in Messi’s career as his representative and adviser, supporting him from his early days at Newell’s Old Boys through his rise to becoming one of the most decorated footballers in history.
Messi ended his tribute with a heartfelt message to his father, thanking him for everything and saying he would continue to feel his presence in his life.
“Rest in peace and watch over us from above, just as you did here. Thank you for everything.
“I love you, Dad.”
