Lionel Messi | Biography

• By Priyanka Das
• Original : April 18, 2025

Who is Lionel Messi?

Lionel Messi, full name Luis Lionel Andres Messi, is an Argentine professional soccer player widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi displayed prodigious talent from a young age. His introduction to soccer began at the age of five when he would play alongside his older brothers. By eight, he had joined Newell’s Old Boys. However, as he faced a growth hormone deficiency, his family made a pivotal decision at 13 to move to Spain when FC Barcelona offered to cover his medical expenses. This move marked the commencement of an extraordinary career.

Messi's professional journey truly took flight at FC Barcelona, where he made his first-team debut at just 16 years old. Over 17 remarkable seasons with the club, Messi became synonymous with success, contributing to numerous La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles. His remarkable skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability earned him a record-breaking eight Ballon d'Or awards, cementing his legacy in soccer history. As of 2023, Messi currently plays for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer after a celebrated stint with Paris Saint-Germain, where he continued to demonstrate his relentless pursuit of greatness. Additionally, he has captained the Argentina national team, leading them to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, further solidifying his status as a global soccer icon.

Early Life and Education

Lionel Messi, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, showed an early passion for soccer, following in the footsteps of his elder brothers. His journey in soccer began at just eight years old when he was recruited by Newell’s Old Boys, a local club that nurtured his talent. Despite his small stature, Messi quickly distinguished himself on the field with exceptional skill and determination. However, at the age of 11, he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency that threatened his athletic career. This medical condition necessitated expensive treatments that his family struggled to afford.

In a pivotal moment for his career, Messi received an offer from FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, to cover his medical expenses in exchange for joining the club. At just 13 years old, he and his family relocated to Spain, leaving behind their life in Argentina. Though the transition was challenging and often left Messi feeling homesick, he thrived in Barcelona’s esteemed youth system. His remarkable progression through the ranks highlighted his exceptional talent, as he not only overcame his physical limitations but also laid the foundation for his future success as one of the greatest soccer players in history.

Career Beginnings at FC Barcelona

Lionel Messi's journey in professional soccer began at the tender age of 13 when he joined FC Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, after the club agreed to cover his medical treatments for a growth hormone deficiency. This pivotal decision came after a family move from Rosario, Argentina, to Spain, where Messi quickly adapted to the new environment despite homesickness. His remarkable talent was evident even as a teenager, culminating in his official debut for the first team at just 16 years old, when he made history by becoming the youngest player to score a goal for Barcelona.

Messi's impact on Barcelona was immediate and transformative. After scoring his first official goal on May 1, 2005, he became a regular feature in the squad, demonstrating his exceptional dribbling, speed, and football intelligence. Over the next 17 seasons, Messi led Barcelona to unprecedented success, winning numerous titles, including multiple Champions League trophies and La Liga championships. His extraordinary ability to navigate through defenses and his proficiency in goal-scoring drew comparisons to legendary players like Diego Maradona, establishing Messi as a football icon both at the club and internationally.

Success and Achievements in Soccer

Lionel Messi, an iconic figure in global football, has had an illustrious career marked by remarkable achievements and accolades. Beginning his professional journey with FC Barcelona, Messi quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, becoming the youngest player to score for the club at just 16 years old. Throughout his 17 seasons with Barcelona, he helped the team secure numerous titles, including 10 La Liga championships and 4 UEFA Champions League titles. His extraordinary skill set was recognized with eight prestigious Ballon d’Or awards, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Messi's international career with Argentina has also been nothing short of historic. After enduring setbacks in various tournaments, including a heart-wrenching loss in the 2014 World Cup final, he achieved his first major international success by leading Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America. This victory was followed by the crowning achievement of his career: winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he played a vital role in securing the trophy for Argentina, scoring two goals in the final and being awarded the tournament's MVP. These accomplishments further solidified his status as a legendary player both at the club and international levels.

Personal Life: Married Life with Antonella Roccuzzo and Children

Lionel Messi's personal life has been incredibly intertwined with his life-long love, Antonella Roccuzzo. The couple first met in their hometown of Rosario, Argentina, when Messi was just five years old. Their relationship blossomed over the years, evolving from childhood friends to romantic partners. After years of dating, Messi and Antonella tied the knot on June 30, 2017, in a grand ceremony often referred to as the "wedding of the century." Held at a luxury hotel in Rosario, the event was attended by numerous high-profile guests, including fellow athletes and celebrities, highlighting the couple's prominence both off and on the field.

Together, Lionel and Antonella share three beautiful children: Thiago, born in November 2012; Mateo, born in September 2015; and Ciro, born in March 2018. Messi often shares glimpses of his family life on social media, showcasing their close bond and adventures together. Antonella has supported Messi throughout his illustrious career, standing by him during significant life milestones, including his triumphant World Cup victory in 2022 with the Argentine national team. As a family, they embody a grounded yet aspirational lifestyle, which resonates with many fans around the world, making them relatable figures in the sports community and beyond.

Net Worth and Earning: $600 Million

Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine soccer player, boasts an impressive net worth estimated at approximately $600 million. This wealth has been amassed through a combination of his lucrative playing contracts, endorsements, and various business ventures. According to Forbes, he ranked second on the annual list of highest-paid athletes, earning $130 million in just one year through both on-field and off-field revenue. His unprecedented talent on the field, as well as his global appeal, has made him a sought-after figure in the world of sports, attracting numerous sponsorships and partnerships.

Messi’s financial portfolio is further enhanced by major endorsement deals with prominent brands such as Adidas, PepsiCo, Gatorade, and Mastercard. In 2019, he secured a lifetime contract with Adidas worth around $25 million annually. Additionally, Messi engages with fans through the Socios app, which is expected to bring him an estimated $20 million each year. His decision to join Inter Miami in Major League Soccer not only adds to his earnings as one of the highest-paid players in the league but also positions him as a central figure in the growing popularity of soccer in the United States.

FAQs

What is Lionel Messi's full name?

Lionel Messi's full name is Luis Lionel Andres Messi.

When was Lionel Messi born?

Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987.

Where is Lionel Messi from?

Lionel Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina.

Which clubs has Lionel Messi played for?

Messi has played for FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and currently plays for Inter Miami CF.

How many Ballon d'Or awards has Messi won?

Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or award a record eight times.

What significant achievement did Messi have with the Argentina national team in 2022?

In 2022, Messi captained Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup, marking the nation's first win since 1986.

What honor did Messi receive during the 2022 World Cup?

Messi was named the tournament MVP during the 2022 World Cup.

How many children does Messi have?

Lionel Messi has three children with his wife, Antonella Roccuzzo: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro.