'Not sure about career; shattered'; Lionel Messi hints at retirement in emotional social media post

BUENOS AIRES: Argentine legend Lionel Messi hinted at retirement in an emotional social media post addressing his father's death. The star said he doesn't know how to move forward without his father’s presence and said he is unclear on how long his football career will continue from now on. Messi shared the grief over his father's passing and the impact his father had on his life and career in the emotional post. Messi said his father’s death was still something shocking for him and termed it an irreparable loss.

“My father had asked me to play in the last World Cup, and although we reached the World Cup final, he couldn't be there. I wanted to win the title and give it to my father. I don't know what to do without my father. I doubt how long I will continue in football.” - Messi wrote on Instagram.

Meanwhile, Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo comforted Messi with a comment. Ronaldo said he was sure Messi would overcome the difficult time.

Jorge Messi, 68, who had been ill for a long time, passed away on August 7. Messi’s father was a crucial presence in his football journey. He was a guide and friend throughout Messi's growth. Meanwhile, the Argentine Football Federation and Inter Miami left it all to Messi to make the final call on his career.