Lionel Messi, one of soccer’s all-time greats, owes much of his success to the unwavering support of his parents, Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini.
Their influence has been instrumental in shaping not just his career but also the remarkable person he has become.
From the very beginning, they have been his biggest cheerleaders, guiding him through the highs and lows of his journey.
Born in 1987, Messi’s accolades speak volumes.
He stands out with an astonishing eight Ballon d’Or trophies, a record that underscores his status in the sport.
Add to that ten La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League victories, six European Golden Shoes, and a gold medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and it’s clear that Messi’s trophy cabinet is nothing short of impressive.
Yet, for Jorge and Celia, these achievements are secondary to the values instilled in their son.
Jorge Messi once shared in Bruno Passano’s book, “My Son the Soccer Player,” that his pride lies not only in Messi’s accomplishments on the field but in the type of person he is off it.
“What makes me proud is who Leo is as a person,” he expressed.
Jorge emphasized that while they celebrate his sporting triumphs, their greatest satisfaction comes from knowing he embodies good character.
Celia Cuccittini has echoed her husband’s sentiments, often highlighting Messi’s qualities beyond soccer.
In a 2018 appearance on the TV show “El Diario de Mariana,” she described her son as “a divine son, a beautiful brother, a better father, and an incredible husband.” Her words reflect a deep admiration for Messi not just as an athlete but as a family man.
The Messi family dynamic includes Lionel’s siblings—Rodrigo, Matias, and their sister Maria Sol.
Despite having a globally recognized brother, they prefer to live away from the public eye, focusing on their own lives rather than basking in fame.
This choice highlights the family’s desire for privacy amidst the spotlight that often shines on Lionel.
When Messi began his career with Barcelona, Jorge and Celia relocated to Spain.
However, the family faced challenges when Celia returned to Argentina with the other children, leaving Lionel behind with his father.
This separation was tough on young Messi, who later revealed that he often cried himself to sleep, feeling the weight of loneliness.
Jorge reflected on this difficult period in a 2010 interview with Sports Illustrated, stating, “Leo needs his mother, and I needed to see my daughter.” The emotional struggle was palpable, as he noted that during those early years, Lionel could only see his mother every four months.
It was a trying time for both father and son.
Despite the heartache, Messi remained focused on his passion for soccer.
He admitted to moments of sadness and homesickness, yet he never wavered in his commitment to the sport.
“I knew I wanted to stay and keep playing,” he recalled, showing a determination that would eventually lead him to greatness.
Throughout his illustrious career, Messi has found unique ways to honor his mother.
One memorable instance occurred in 2011 when he was fined for lifting his jersey to reveal an undershirt that read “Feliz Cumple Mami,” or “Happy Birthday Mami.”
This gesture showcased not only his love for Celia but also his willingness to express it publicly, even at a cost.
Tattoos have become another canvas for Messi to pay tribute to his family.
Among his many pieces of body art, one notable tattoo is of his mother, which he proudly displays.
Additionally, he has inked the names and birthdates of his three sons on his body, cementing the importance of family in his life.