Football: Lionel Messi posts tribute to his father: 'I don't know how to go on from here'

Football icon Lionel Messi broke his silence following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, posting a deeply emotional tribute on Instagram. Jorge Messi passed away last Friday after a prolonged illness. The Argentinian superstar shared his profound grief and sense of loss, addressing his father directly in the poignant message.

"I know you suffered, and this was for the best. Still, you left us too soon," Messi wrote, expressing his devastation. He conveyed his deep uncertainty about his future, stating, "I don't know what I'll do without you. I don't know how to go on from here." Messi, who has dedicated his life to football, questioned his own longevity in the sport, adding, "I'm going to miss you terribly, but you will always be with us. Rest in peace, and watch over us from above, just as you did here."

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I know you suffered, and this was for the best. Still, you left us too soon. I don't know what I'll do without you. I don't know how to go on from here. I'm going to miss you terribly, but you will always be with us. Rest in peace, and watch over us from above, just as you did here.

Messi's heartfelt message garnered an outpouring of support and condolences from fans and fellow athletes. Notably, his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo offered his sympathies, writing, "Big hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult time, Leo. I wish you much strength."

Jorge Messi had been battling a serious illness for several months. Sources indicated he died at a hospital in his hometown of Rosario late Friday. He had served as his son's agent from the very beginning of Lionel Messi's career. In July, Lionel Messi had missed the MLS All-Star game to visit his father in Argentina, underscoring the close bond between them.

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Big hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult time, Leo. I wish you much strength.