Example, idol, friend and inspiration for a more united Latin America. This is Lionel Messi seen through the eyes of readers of Sheetwho sent messages to the Argentine star.
Seven times the best in the world, Messi finally won the title he dreamed of so much: he received the Golden Ball award for best player at the World Cup in Qatar, this Sunday (18). In a historic final, Argentina beat France on penalties after 3-3 in overtime to become three-time world champions.
“I’ve had the opportunity to accompany you since I was 9 years old. I’ve seen you face a thousand challenges over the years and we’ve grown together. At 18, I saw you for the first time live at Camp Nou, in the friendly against Chapecoense. , mostly fulfilled. Today I’m 24 years old and I saw you overcome your biggest nightmare (that final of 2014). I don’t know you, but it seems that we’ve been friends forever”, wrote student Gabriel Vandelli, 24, from Belo Horizonte (MG ).
“Thanks for being my partner, even without knowing I exist. I’m really happy for you! Please don’t stop playing so soon, I’m not ready to keep growing alone.”
Victory more than deserved! What we saw was a complete athlete _believing in the team, exercising leadership with category, playing with technique and, above all, with soul!”, wrote the psychologist
Sandra Fiordoliva, 60, from São Paulo (SP).
For readers, it was thanks to Messi that Brazilians put their historic rivalry aside and supported Argentina.
“In addition to being a phenomenal player, you are an incredible human being. You managed to make even Brazilians, historic rivals of Argentina, support your country. It is an honor to be able to see you play,” wrote student Catarina Ometto Scarparo, 18 , from São Paulo (SP).
“I never imagined myself sitting in a bakery in São Paulo rooting for Argentina. The whole bakery rooting for Argentina!! Beautiful game, beautiful victory”, said nurse Tânia Ferreira da Silva, 50, from São Paulo (SP).
“You made Latin America happy again, you brought pride and strength to your country. And even more, you made a generation question the rivalry for having sprouted in many hearts love and respect for your work. Your competence and affection with your beautiful family are undeniable” , said secretary Sarah Moreno, 34, from São Paulo (SP). “I hope that after Argentina’s great victory, we can create a union between Latin countries.”
Read below some of the messages sent by readers.
“Thank you for the seriousness that resulted in the title of best among the best. As neighbors, we celebrate the victory with you.”
Eliane Tomiasi, 58, teacher (Londrina, PR)
“Thank you for providing us with beautiful football! It’s been a long time since I watched such an exciting World Cup final! Your football is magical, spectacular!”
Marilza Arbex de Castro Lima, 59, retired (Fortaleza, CE)
“You are the king of the ball! Maradona is happy with your performance! Two stars from different generations! Lucky am I to have seen them play!”
Maria Antonieta, 50, dentist (Campina Verde, MG)
“We need a Messi in Brazil.”
Antônio Umberto de Carvalho Filho, 40, truck driver (Francisco Sá, MG)
“Brazilians love Pelé and we will continue to love Pelé, but we know how to recognize when a giant of the ball appears.”
Tammy Suelen de Souza Vieira, 39, civil servant (João Pessoa, PB)
“It was very beautiful! It was emotional! Even those who don’t like football must have goosebumps. For the vibrant match, for the twists and turns, for being one of the most unforgettable World Cup finals.
But mainly for being the glorious consecration of Lionel Messi. Because he represents the most important thing of all: genius, gift, excellence, talent. What overlaps nationality, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, age, socioeconomic status and everything else: talent.”
Fabio S. Dantas Flappers, 36, film historian (Rio de Janeiro, RJ)
“Being a winner, you don’t need to be humble…and it is…and it was…a thousand times congratulations! An inspiration on this Sunday that will not be forgotten!”
Teresa Cristina Rodrigues Narciso, 65, accountant (São Paulo, SP)
“Inspiring to see you lead the Argentine national team to the title. Your age didn’t hurt, on the contrary, it only brought you the necessary maturity for this achievement. Congratulations, best in the world!”
Rodrigo da Silva Pastorello, 26, teacher (São Caetano do Sul, SP)
Thank you so much, dear Messi, for everything you represent for Argentina and for all of us in Latin America. My father (who was Argentine) from heaven was cheering. I’m Brazilian, but I’ve always supported Argentina because of the wonderful father I had ️”
Luciana Quadros Villagra, 39, civil engineer (Porto Alegre, RS)
“Giant Messi, my greatest wish is that youth look up to you, in your competence, seriousness and humility. I am a doctor and professor at a public university in Brazil and I dream of a fairer and more equal Latin America for all.” Long live Messi.
Rita Fernandes, 58, medical university professor (Salvador, BA)
“Messi, I rooted for you more than for Brazil, my country!”
Gabriela Abdalla, 47, graphic designer (Belo Horizonte, MG)
“Messi, don’t end your career without playing for Vascão!”
Nilton Roberto Martins Cabral Guimarães, 42, lawyer (Salvador, BA)
As a seasoned news journalist, I bring a wealth of experience to the field. I’ve worked with world-renowned news organizations, honing my skills as a writer and reporter. Currently, I write for the sports section at News Bulletin 247, where I bring a unique perspective to every story.
