Messi Celebrates 39th Birthday as Argentina Salutes World Cup Record-Breaking Icon
Lionel Messi marked his 39th birthday on Wednesday with more than just personal celebrations. The Argentine captain is currently leading the Golden Boot race and has etched his name further into football history as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals.
Across Argentina, fans joined a nationwide celebration under the hashtag #CumpleLEO, singing “Happy Birthday” to the football legend at 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. local time—a tribute inspired by his iconic number 10 jersey. The campaign, initiated by local television station Telefé, saw supporters gather in schools, gyms, businesses, and at Buenos Aires’ famous Obelisk, waving Argentine flags and sharing tributes online.
Among the crowds was 71-year-old fan Rubén Acosta, who arrived at the Obelisk early in the morning to honour his hero.
“I love Messi. He’s an alien. You’re not from this planet. You came from another galaxy,” Acosta said.
Argentina’s President, Javier Milei, also joined the celebrations, posting a birthday message on social media in support of the football icon.
Messi’s remarkable performances at the ongoing World Cup have given Argentines plenty to celebrate. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored five goals in two matches, including a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace against Austria, placing him at the top of the Golden Boot standings.
His first goal against Austria saw him surpass former Germany striker Miroslav Klose to become the highest goalscorer in World Cup finals history with 17 goals. He later extended the record to 18, setting a new benchmark across both the men’s and women’s World Cup tournaments.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni kept his birthday wish simple when asked about Messi.
“I just want him to be happy,” Scaloni said.
Despite Messi’s dominance, the race for the Golden Boot remains intense. France’s Kylian Mbappé has scored four goals after netting twice against both Senegal and Iraq. Norway’s Erling Haaland has matched that tally with four goals of his own, while Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo reignited his campaign with a brace in a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
England striker Harry Kane remains on two goals after failing to score in a goalless draw against Ghana, while Germany’s Deniz Undav has contributed three goals and two assists. Canada’s Jonathan David also entered the conversation with a hat-trick against Qatar.
As the tournament progresses, the battle for the Golden Boot promises more drama. For now, however, the spotlight firmly remains on Messi, whose birthday celebrations have been matched by another historic chapter in his extraordinary career.