Messi turns 39 amid World Cup celebrations and tributes

Lionel Messi celebrated his 39th birthday on June 24, 2026, while representing Argentina in the World Cup, drawing emotional tributes from his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, teammates, and football organizations worldwide.

Family tribute

Antonela Roccuzzo posted a heartfelt Instagram message: "Feliz cumpleaños al amor de mi vida. Que seas muy feliz hoy y siempre. Nosotros ya tenemos todo lo que necesitamos porque te tenemos a vos." She included old photos of the couple and their children Source: lavozarSource: heraldomx. Messi replied, "Los amo!!! Qué chiquitos éramos" Source: heraldomx.

Worldwide recognition

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) hailed him as "the man who changed the history of world football" Source: lavozar. Argentina's President Javier Milei also sent greetings: "FELIZ CUMPLE L10NEL...!!! VAMOS ARGENTINA CARAJO...!!!" Source: heraldomx. Barcelona, PSG, and Inter Miami each posted tributes, with Barcelona stating, "Un año más celebrando la grandeza. ¡Feliz cumpleaños, Leo!" Source: heraldomx. Former teammate Ronaldinho also joined the well-wishers Source: heraldomx.

World Cup context

Messi's birthday coincided with Argentina's ongoing World Cup campaign. He had already scored five goals in the first two matches, helping Argentina qualify for the round of 32 and becoming the tournament's all-time top scorer . His teammates surprised him with a cake and personalized jerseys the night before . The celebrations mark his fifth birthday spent at a World Cup, but the first with family present since 2022 .