For all latest news, follow the Daily Sun's Google News channel.
Argentina legend Lionel Messi. Photo : REUTERS
The man, the myth and the legend – Lionel Messi turns 39 today (24 June 2026). The football world is celebrating the birthday of Messi, a player whose extraordinary career has inspired generations of fans across the globe. Even after achieving virtually everything the sport has to offer, the Argentine superstar continues to shine on the biggest stage.
Messi has already made a flying start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leading Argentina’s title defence with a series of match-winning performances. Messi now stands as the highest goal scorer in the FIFA World Cup with 18 goals to his name. It will be fair to say that the Rosario-born footballer gave himself the perfect present before his 39th birthday.
As supporters celebrate another milestone in the life of one of football’s greatest-ever players, here are ten fascinating facts that highlight the remarkable journey of the Argentine legend.
1. Named After American Music Superstar
Lionel Andrés Messi was born on 24 June 1987 in Rosario, Argentina. His mother was a fan of American singer Lionel Richie and chose the name Lionel for her son, a decision that would later become known around the world.
2. Barcelona Signed Him on a Napkin
One of football’s most famous stories involves Messi’s first agreement with Barcelona. Impressed by the teenager’s exceptional talent, sporting director Carles Rexach wrote an informal contract on a paper napkin during a meeting. That napkin later became one of football’s most valuable pieces of memorabilia.
3. Overcame Serious Medical Challenge
As a child, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. The treatment was expensive and beyond the means of his family. Barcelona offered to cover the costs if he joined their youth academy, a decision that changed the course of football history.
4. Scored Hundreds of Goals Before Turning Professional
Long before becoming a global superstar, Messi was terrorising youth defenders in Argentina. During his years with Newell’s Old Boys, he scored close to 500 goals and quickly earned a reputation as a once-in-a-generation talent.
5. Celebration Honors His Grandmother
Whenever Messi points both index fingers toward the sky after scoring, he is paying tribute to his beloved grandmother Celia. She played a crucial role in encouraging his football dreams and remains one of the most important figures in his life story.
6. The King of the Ballon d’Or
No player in football history has won more Ballon d’Or awards than Messi. His eight triumphs underline an era of sustained excellence that has seen him dominate world football for nearly two decades.
7. A Unique World Cup Achievement
Messi remains the only player to win the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball on two occasions. He first received the award in 2014 and repeated the feat after guiding Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022.
8. A Record-Breaking World Cup Goalscorer
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has added another chapter to Messi’s legendary career. His goals have helped him surpass previous scoring milestones and further strengthen his place among the greatest performers in tournament history.
9. A Rare Argentine Record
Across his lengthy international career, Messi has achieved the unique distinction of scoring World Cup goals as both one of Argentina’s youngest scorers and one of its oldest, reflecting his remarkable longevity at the highest level.
10. The Most-Liked Instagram Post Ever
Following Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022, Messi shared photographs celebrating with the trophy. The post shattered records on Instagram, becoming one of the most-liked images ever posted on the platform and demonstrating his immense global popularity.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
From a young boy battling a medical condition in Rosario to becoming a World Cup-winning captain and football icon, Lionel Messi’s journey is one of perseverance, brilliance and inspiration. As he turns 39, his story continues to captivate millions, while his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is already firmly secured. As a football fan, who would want to miss these ten fascinating facts about the Argentine legend?
The writer can be reached at [email protected]