Lionel Messi has cast fresh doubt over his football future following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, admitting he is unsure how much longer he can continue playing. The 39-year-old Argentina captain shared an emotional tribute to Jorge on Instagram on Wednesday, August 12, days after his father died aged 68 in Rosario, Argentina.
Emotional Tribute and Uncertainty
In the tribute, Messi expressed deep uncertainty about his career, saying, “I don’t know what I’m going to do without you, I don’t know how to continue. I only played football and now I have a lot of doubts about continuing for much longer.” These comments have sparked speculation that the Inter Miami forward could be approaching retirement, though he has not made any official announcement.
Jorge Messi was not only a father but also a long-time representative and adviser, playing a major role in Messi’s career from his early days in Argentina through his rise to global stardom. His influence remained significant even after Messi became one of the most decorated players in football history.
World Cup Impact and Father's Wish
Messi also revealed how heavily his father’s illness affected him during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He said one reason he played in the tournament was to fulfil Jorge’s wish, as his father had hoped to attend the competition. Argentina reached the World Cup final but lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time. Messi, who had broken down in tears during the tournament, later acknowledged the emotional difficulty of trying to compete while worrying about his father.
Support from Ronaldo and Legacy
The emotional tribute drew support from across football, including Messi’s long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo responded to Messi’s post with a message of sympathy, writing: “A huge hug to you and yours in these tough times, Leo. Much strength.” The gesture was notable given the rivalry between the two football legends, who spent more than a decade competing for the biggest individual and team honours in the sport.
Messi also made clear that although his father is gone, Jorge’s influence will remain with him. He said he would carry his father’s values into raising his own children. For now, Messi remains an Inter Miami player, but his emotional admission has left his future uncertain. After dedicating much of his life to football alongside his father, the Argentine superstar is now facing a deeply personal question: whether he can continue the game without the man who was there from the beginning.
