Lionel Messi Emotional Post After Father Jorge Messi’s Death: Football Future in Doubt; Cristiano Ronaldo Says, “Stay Strong, Leo”

Lionel Messi has opened up about his grief following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, in an emotional Instagram tribute. Messi said he is uncertain about how much longer he can continue playing football without his father by his side.

The emotional post also drew a heartfelt response from longtime football rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who sent his support to Messi and his family, telling the Argentina star to “stay strong.”

Messi Pays Emotional Tribute to Father Jorge

Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness. He was not only Lionel Messi's father but also played an important role in the footballer's career and professional life.

In his emotional tribute, Messi reflected on his father's lifelong presence and questioned how he would move forward without him. The Argentina captain also recalled how his father encouraged him to play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite his declining health.

Ronaldo Sends Support to Messi

Cristiano Ronaldo responded to Messi's post with a message of sympathy and encouragement, sending a hug to Messi and his family during their difficult time and urging him to remain strong.

The gesture has received widespread attention because of the longstanding Messi-Ronaldo rivalry. Despite their years of competition on the football pitch, the message highlighted the mutual respect between the two global stars.

Messi Recalls His Father’s World Cup Wish

Messi also revealed how his father's wish influenced his decision to compete at the 2026 World Cup. Jorge's health had reportedly deteriorated shortly before the tournament, but Messi continued to play while hoping to fulfill his father's wish.

The football star later recalled becoming emotional after scoring against Algeria, with his father's health weighing heavily on him. Messi also said he wanted to win the World Cup for Jorge, although Argentina ultimately finished as runners-up.

Messi Vows to Keep His Father’s Memory Alive

In his tribute, Messi said he would carry his father's legacy forward through his children. The Inter Miami star and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, have three sons—Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.

Messi's message made clear that Jorge's influence extended far beyond football. From his early years in Argentina to his rise as one of football's biggest stars, his father remained an important figure throughout his journey.

Will Messi Retire From Football?

Messi's comments have inevitably triggered speculation about his future, but there has been no confirmed announcement of retirement. His emotional statement reflects the enormous personal impact of his father's death rather than a formal decision to end his career. Reuters reported that Messi expressed uncertainty about continuing to play following the loss.

For now, the football world is standing behind Messi as he mourns the loss of his father, while Ronaldo's compassionate message has added another emotional chapter to the story of two of the sport's most celebrated players.