Football legend Lionel Messi celebrates his 38th birthday today, June 24, 2025, a milestone that finds the Argentine maestro still at the pinnacle of the sport, competing in the FIFA Club World Cup and steering his Inter Miami side towards a tantalizing showdown with his former club, Paris Saint-Germain.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who has captivated the globe with his dazzling skills and record-breaking achievements for over two decades, marked his birthday on the heels of a dramatic 2-2 draw against Brazilian side Palmeiras. The result secured Inter Miami a coveted spot in the last 16 of the prestigious tournament.
While Messi did not find the back of the net in the hard-fought match, his influence on the pitch remains undeniable. His presence continues to be a driving force for the MLS club, which now faces the monumental task of taking on the reigning European champions, PSG, in the knockout stage. This sets the stage for a highly anticipated reunion between Messi and the Parisian giants, a club he represented for two seasons before his move to the United States.
Tributes and well-wishes have been pouring in from across the footballing world, celebrating the enduring legacy of a player who has redefined excellence. From his historic tenure at FC Barcelona, where he became the club's all-time leading scorer, to leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, Messi's career has been nothing short of extraordinary.
As he enters his late thirties, an age when many of his contemporaries have long since hung up their boots, Messi continues to defy expectations. His move to Inter Miami has brought a new level of excitement and global attention to Major League Soccer, and his performances demonstrate that his passion for the game remains as fervent as ever.
While the immediate focus will be on the upcoming clash with PSG, today is a day for the football world to pause and celebrate the birth of a player who has given so much to the beautiful game. The "La Pulga" (The Flea), as he is affectionately known, continues to write new chapters in his illustrious career, and fans worldwide eagerly await what's next for the living legend.
