"A Huge Hug To You": Ronaldo Sends Message to Messi After Father's Death
Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, passed away last week at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, after a long illness
By : DC Web Desk
Update: 2026-08-12 15:21 GMT
Football great Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a “huge hug” to fellow football great Lionel Messi after the Argentine penned an emotional tribute to his late father on Wednesday.
Ronaldo commented on Messi’s post, writing: “A huge hug to you and yours in these tough times, Leo. Much strength.”
This highlights the warmth and mutual respect between two of football's biggest stars, who have dominated the sport for almost two decades. Despite their on-field rivalry and constant comparisons, Ronaldo and Messi have often shown admiration for each other, with Ronaldo's heartfelt message offering support to Messi during a deeply difficult moment.
Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, passed away last week at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, after a long illness.
In his social media post, the Argentina superstar said he has “serious doubts” about continuing to play football for much longer.
"I don't know what I'll do without you, I don't know how to go on. I just played football, and now I have serious doubts about continuing to do so for much longer," wrote Messi.
Jorge Messi played an important role in shaping his son's football career. He closely accompanied Lionel throughout his career, including during his early years at Barcelona.
Messi also revealed that one of the reasons he played in the 2026 FIFA World Cup was because it was his father's wish.
“You always asked me to play in the last World Cup, and a few days before it started was when you got worse,” Messi said.
“It was the first time you weren't going to be at a tournament... Every time a match ended, I would wait and hope for your message. That's when I realised how real the situation was.”
On Sunday, Messi bid farewell to his father during a private ceremony attended by close family members and a few Argentina teammates in Pérez, Argentina.