Lionel Messi broke down in tears after scoring the first goal of his hat-trick against Algeria this week – and now his family has confirmed why. The Argentina captain, 38, was enduring what he called “difficult days” back home, as his father Jorge, 68, underwent medical treatment for an undisclosed illness.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Messi family said: “Jorge is going through a health situation. At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.”
“Lionel Messi’s father Jorge is recovering favourably from a health issue as the family condemns false rumours.”
The news came after false reports that Jorge Messi had died circulated in Argentina, prompting a furious response from the family. “Given the versions, rumours, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep displeasure at the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family matter,” the statement said.
Messi had already hinted at personal turmoil after Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening World Cup match in Kansas. When asked why he wept after his first goal, he replied: “Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football. I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”
He went on to complete his first World Cup hat-trick, drawing level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time World Cup goalscoring list with 16 goals. Despite the family crisis, Messi is expected to remain with the squad and be available for Argentina’s next group game against Austria on Monday 22 June.
The family’s statement pleaded for the media to back off: “At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and compassion. A person’s health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be subject to speculation or irresponsible media interest.” They added that only family members have accurate information about Jorge’s condition, and that any updates will be communicated through official channels.