Messi facing Messi

At 39, Lionel Messi reflects on his career, realizing he often missed enjoying his successes due to his relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite his achievements, including the recent Princess of Asturias award, he acknowledges a lack of personal joy and leisure throughout his journey. Messi's dedication to football has overshadowed other aspects of life, including learning English and enjoying time with family. His recent performances, particularly in the 2026 World Cup, have solidified his status as a global icon, transcending football. As he approaches the end of his career, Messi is learning to embrace the accolades and reconnect with his fans, while contemplating his legacy and future beyond the pitch.