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Argentina captain Lionel Messi reportedly cried after scoring the opening goal in his hat-trick against Algeria at the 2026 World Cup Wednesday because his father, Jorge, is experiencing a serious health problem.
After scoring in the 17th minute of the Group J opening match in Kansas City Stadium, USA, Messi broke down in tears, which is atypical of the Argentina captain.
After the match, he revealed that these tears were completely unrelated to sports. "It has been a few difficult days, complicated," said the 1987-born striker.
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Lionel Andres Messi (Argentina) gestures during Group J FIFA World Cup 2026 between Argentina and Algeria in Kansas Stadium, Kansas, United States on June 16, 2026. Photo by NurPhoto via AFP |
According to Radio Mitre, one of Argentina's most listened-to radio stations, Messi cried because his father has been experiencing serious health problems.
Jorge, 68, reportedly suffered a medical episode at his home in January and was hospitalized afterwards. He subsequently underwent cardiovascular and neurological tests, but the family never shared any updates. Some reports suggest Jorge may have pancreatic cancer.
"This week, there were some situations that slightly worsened his health," journalist Eduardo Feinmann told Radio Mitre. "Messi is going through this internal struggle. In other words, like any human being."
Jorge met Celia Cuccittini in Rosario, Argentina. Married in 1978, they share four children, including three sons, Rodrigo, Matias, and Messi, and the youngest daughter, Maria Sol.
Messi is extremely close to his father, who worked in a steel factory before becoming his agent. Jorge also manages his business, overseeing his multi-million dollar empire off the field.
Amidst the emotional turmoil, Messi still shone in the first match of Argentina’s title defense. With his hat-trick against Algeria, Messi equaled former Germany striker Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 World Cup goals. He also has the most goal contributions in the tournament’s history (24), surpassing Pele.
Messi’s wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three sons, along with other family members, were cheering him on in the stands. "Come on Argentina! Always with you, Messi! You are incredible," Roccuzzo wrote on Instagram after the match.
Messi shared that what he is experiencing is amazing, and he feels grateful to be able to achieve all his dreams. "Honestly, everything I have experienced is so much more than I could have imagined when I was a kid," he said. "Today I am enjoying this, being part of a wonderful group, feeling good, and thankfully, being able to enjoy it on the field the way I have always loved to."
