BUENOS AIRES — Lionel Messi, widely considered one of the sport’s greatest players, tearfully bid an emotional farewell to Argentina supporters in what was his final competitive home match, a 3-0 victory against Venezuela.
In front of a packed, sellout crowd at the Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires, the superstar marked his farewell with an impressive two-goal performance. Emotions ran high throughout the night, with Messi visibly crying as the crowd chanted his name during warm-ups. His wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and his three sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro, were in the stands to witness the momentous occasion.
Following the match, the 38-year-old hinted at a potential retirement ahead of next year’s World Cup. “Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But well, we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it,” he told reporters. He added that his decision would depend on his physical condition. “I go day by day, going by how I feel. I’m trying to feel good and, above all, being honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it, but when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time.”
Messi reflected on the “fairytale goodbye,” stating that finishing his journey in his homeland was “what I always dreamed of.” He expressed immense gratitude for the affection he received and the ability to celebrate with his own people. His wife, Antonela, also shared a tribute on Instagram, writing, “Proud of you, every step you take and everything you built with love and effort. How lucky are we to be with you on this path!!! We love you.”
Source: ladunliadinews