Almost a year after Lionel Messi’s victorious moment of lifting the World Cup trophy for Argentina in Qatar, the Inter Miami CF star takes a look back at the challenging path that led him to this triumph. In an exclusive interview for the “Champions, a Year Later” special on Disney Star+, Messi opens up about how he successfully transformed criticism into praise in his home country.
“I had a difficult time. My family and loved ones suffered alongside me. The critics in Argentina were unjust towards a whole generation of players, and they directed a lot of negativity towards me. However, I hold no grudges,” Messi reveals. “For me, it is a personal triumph to have changed that situation and earned the love and support of 95% or even 100% of Argentines. It’s a beautiful feeling.”
While Messi made his debut for Argentina in 2005, his first taste of glory in a major tournament didn’t come until 2021 when Argentina emerged victorious in the Copa América, defeating Brazil in the final. In the years leading up to this victory, Messi experienced heartbreaking defeats, such as losses in the 2011 and 2016 Copa América tournaments and a stunning elimination by France in the round-of-16 of the 2018 World Cup.
In the 18 months between winning the Copa América and lifting the World Cup in Qatar, Messi led the Albiceleste to triumph in the Finalissima trophy at Wembley Stadium in London and qualified for the 2022 World Cup. Reflecting on these accomplishments, Messi expresses his gratitude for the immense love and adoration he receives at Barcelona. However, he admits that winning the World Cup was always his ultimate dream.
“Being a world champion with your national team is the ultimate desire. Every player dreams big, and winning the World Cup is the pinnacle of those dreams. I was fortunate enough to achieve everything at the club level with Barcelona and also on an individual level. This was the one thing that had eluded me. There are only a handful of players who can say they have accomplished everything, and by the grace of God, I am one of them,” Messi confesses.
Messi emphasizes the importance of hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and humility in achieving one’s goals. He recognizes that the journey may be arduous, but it is crucial to persevere and fight for one’s dreams.
As Messi’s interview sheds light on his personal journey, it also speaks volumes about the power of determination and resilience. Conquering criticism and winning the World Cup have not only brought Messi personal triumph but also transformed how he is perceived in Argentina. The enduring support and love he receives from his countrymen are testaments to the impact he has made as an athlete and an inspiration to many aspiring footballers.
Lionel Messi’s path to success has been filled with hurdles, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. However, his unwavering dedication to his craft and unyielding spirit have propelled him to overcome the odds. As Messi continues to inspire a generation of football enthusiasts worldwide, his story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the rewards that await those who refuse to give up on their dreams.
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