What Haunts Lionel Messi About His Career?
Lionel Messi, often hailed as the greatest of all time, has shared insights into a match that continues to haunt him, shedding light on the emotional weight that accompanies his illustrious career. The Argentine football superstar has famously conquered numerous tournaments, yet one particular game stands out as a source of persistent anguish.
In a candid revelation, Messi poignantly reflected on the 2014 FIFA World Cup final, where Argentina faced Germany. Despite leading the team to the final, Messi's hopes of glory were dashed as they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat, courtesy of Mario Gotze's extra-time goal. This loss, he admits, remains a point of torment for him.
In a recent interview with Simplemente Fútbol, Messi candidly expressed, "Mbappé has the peace of mind that he won the 2018 World Cup. The same thing happened to me in 2014; it was torture for me. You also look back and think, ‘I could’ve won two.’” This admission speaks volumes about the pressure elite athletes face, often compounded by the expectations to perform at the highest level consistently.
Messi's fortitude shines through as he recounts his journey from being the player defined by his inability to win a World Cup to finally lifting the coveted trophy in 2022. Reflecting on the dramatic final against France, wherein he triumphed over Kylian Mbappé’s historic hat-trick, Messi shared, "We did it all, we achieved everything, and after this, there’s nothing left." Such reflections highlight not only his career achievements but also his emotional resilience.
He added, “Winning it later made everything feel lighter. You see it in a different light. Now you think, ‘Damn, I made it to another final—I could’ve won two World Cups, right?’ But I already have it.” This sense of relief appears to reshape Messi’s legacy, allowing him to fully appreciate his accomplishments while still acknowledging the haunting spectre of past failures.
Moreover, Messi's gratitude for his experiences permeated his remarks. "I always say I’m very grateful to God for everything he has blessed me with. God gave me everything," he shared, underscoring how perspective can alter one's view of success and fulfillment.
As Messi continues to navigate the highs and lows of his football career, his reflections offer valuable insights into the human side of sporting greatness. The dichotomy of triumphs and defeats illustrates the emotional journey of athletes who, despite their laurels, grapple with the weight of expectations and the shadow of past failures.
As fans and spectators, we are left to ponder the costs of greatness and what truly defines success. What are your thoughts on Messi’s reflections? Can the past ever truly be laid to rest, or does it invariably shape who we are?
We invite you to share your opinions in the comments below.
