Argentina and Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi has opened up about the death of his father, Jorge Messi, admitting that the loss has left him questioning his future in football.
Messi paid an emotional tribute to his late father on social media, describing Jorge as his father, friend, representative and one of the most influential figures in his life and career.
“Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone,” Messi wrote, reflecting on the loss and the difficult period his family had endured.
The 39-year-old revealed that one of his biggest hopes surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup was for Argentina to reach the final so that Jorge could recover and travel to watch him play.
Messi said he had repeatedly told his father that Argentina would make it to the final and that he wanted to win the tournament so he could dedicate the achievement to him.
However, Jorge was unable to attend the final, while Messi said physical difficulties prevented him from giving everything he wanted on the pitch.
“We reached the final, and you couldn’t be there. I wanted to win it so I could bring it to you and show you another one,” he said.
Messi also recalled his father’s unwavering support during his childhood, noting that Jorge often took him to training after work and rarely missed his matches.
As Messi’s career progressed, Jorge became heavily involved in managing his son’s professional affairs, including representing him during negotiations.
Despite their professional relationship, Messi said he would remember Jorge above all as his father and the man who helped shape him through advice, disagreements and life lessons.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you. I don’t know how to keep going,” the football star wrote.
Messi further admitted that his father’s death had caused him to reconsider his playing career.
“I only played soccer, and now I have a lot of doubts about whether I’ll keep doing it for much longer,” he said.
Despite his grief, Messi said Jorge’s influence would remain with him, particularly through the way he raises his children.
He said he would teach his children using the values and lessons he inherited from his father.
“I’m going to miss you so much, but you will always be present, especially in the way I raise my children,” Messi said.
He ended his tribute with a heartfelt farewell to Jorge, thanking him for everything and expressing his love for his late father.
“Rest in peace and watch over us from above, just like you did here. Thank you for everything. I love you, Dad.”