Behind every global superstar lies a family that quietly bears the weight of fame—and for Lionel Messi’s loved ones, that pressure has been both beautiful and brutal.
In a revealing interview with La Nación, Messi’s nephew and godson, Tomás Messi, has lifted the curtain on the emotional reality of living in the shadow of one of football’s most adored figures. His words, shared in a report by Goal.com on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, have struck a chord with fans across the world.
“We’ve suffered a lot,” Tomás confessed, admitting that while the Messi name brings immense pride, the spotlight hasn’t always been kind.
Few athletes command the level of attention Messi does. From his early days dazzling at Barcelona to his current chapter at Inter Miami, the Argentine icon has captured the world’s heart—eight Ballon d’Or titles, 46 trophies, and, of course, a World Cup crown. But even with that staggering success, Messi has never drifted far from his family roots.
Now 38, the Inter Miami captain is reportedly weighing up whether to extend his MLS journey—perhaps taking a page from Cristiano Ronaldo’s longevity and playing deep into his forties. But while fans debate his next move, Tomás paints a quieter picture of life behind the fame: a grounded uncle who still checks in, still visits, still cares.
“To us, he’s just Leo,” Tomás said warmly. “A loving uncle who never lets fame come between us.”
Yet, being part of the Messi bloodline isn’t without its strain. Tomás, who once pursued football before turning to journalism, revealed that growing up with that surname brought its own weight.
“At first, it felt like a burden,” he admitted. “People expected me to be like him. It took time to find my own identity.”
The nephew also reflected on what could be the emotional closing stages of Messi’s international career. The World Cup winner’s recent appearance in Argentina’s qualifier against Venezuela may have been his last on home soil—a thought that left the family teary-eyed.
“We’re proud and grateful,” Tomás said, “but it’s hard knowing this chapter is ending. Still, what he’s living is beautiful.”
As Argentina gear up for friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico, Messi’s legendary tally—114 goals in 194 caps—remains unmatched. Whether or not he graces the next World Cup, one thing is certain: the Messi story is not just about trophies and goals—it’s about the family who carried the weight of his greatness with him.
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