When Messi stood before the world, accepting his Golden Ball title and delivering a speech that would reverberate across the globe, his three infamous “anti-fan” sons provided a comical reaction that had everyone in stitches.
In the early morning of October 31, 2023, the prestigious Golden Ball awards ceremony unfolded at the enchanting Chatelet Theater in the heart of Paris, France. It came as no surprise that Lionel Messi, the reigning champion of the 2022 World Cup, outshone the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, securing his 8th Golden Ball in a stunning career.
As Messi took the stage to deliver his heartfelt acceptance speech and bask in the glory of being crowned the greatest player in history, the camera captured the genuine expressions of his three mischievous boys.
Thiago, the eldest, naturally reserved, pondered his thoughts while solemnly observing his father’s speech. The mischievous Mateo, affectionately bestowed with the nickname “Chairman” by Messi’s devoted fans as the leader of his anti-fan club, yawned boisterously and precariously teetered on his chair. Sitting on his mother’s lap, the youngest, Ciro, simply sprawled himself on the chair, undoubtedly bored by the formal affair.
As onlookers witnessed this delightful display from the trio, they couldn’t help but exclaim at the humor and authenticity of Messi’s “anti-fan” offspring.
Messi expressed his thoughts as he graciously accepted the prestigious 2023 Golden Ball award.
Mateo’s older brother let out a tired yawn as he listened to their father deliver his acceptance speech for an award.
Thiago, the oldest among them, pondered silently while his two younger brothers did not even show a hint of a smile.
Ciro, the youngest boy, reclined on the chair, patiently awaiting his father to conclude his conversation.
The three gentlemen took to the stage alongside Messi to receive the award. On the day he celebrated his 8th Golden Ball, Messi expressed his inability to set a specific retirement date. “As I mentioned before, I have a profound love for football and a strong desire to continue playing,” Messi emphasized.
Furthermore, the Argentine legend expressed his gratitude towards his teammates on the Argentine National team, who supported him in winning the 2022 World Cup. “This Golden Ball is not just a personal achievement, but a gift for all Argentines. I want to acknowledge the incredible performances by Haaland and Mbappé, who had an exceptional year and will surely win this award in the coming years. I have been fortunate to grace this Golden Ball ceremony for many years, and I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who rejoiced when Argentina won the World Championship,” Messi acknowledged, emphasizing the importance of team spirit and the people of Argentina.
Aside from his immediate family, Messi made a special mention of the late renowned player Diego Maradona. “Happy birthday, Diego. There’s no better moment than this to send you my heartfelt congratulations. This golden ball belongs to you and all Argentines,” Messi concluded, paying tribute to the football icon.
Messi is truly remarkable, excelling not only in football but also as a person.
