Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, have shared a remarkable journey together, having known each other since childhood. Their bond has been a source of strength for both as they navigate the challenges of life and Messi's illustrious football career. During the 2026 World Cup, Antonela has been a constant presence in the stands, cheering for Messi alongside their three sons.

Antonela frequently shares images and messages on social media, expressing her pride in Messi's achievements. In an interview with Haute Living, she mentioned that experiencing Messi's glorious and thrilling moments together helps create wonderful memories for their children.

To allow Messi to focus on his game, Antonela has taken on the role of a strong support system. Messi stated in an interview with People that they maintain a normal routine in the United States after his move to Inter Miami in 2023. They wake up early together to take their children to school, and Antonela tries to manage her work while the kids are at school, dedicating her afternoons and evenings to family time.

Antonela describes herself as a family-oriented person, and her ideal day involves spending time with loved ones, enjoying a barbecue. When she has time to herself, she likes to exercise, read, and watch movies. The couple shares a common philosophy on parenting, emphasizing the importance of teaching their children good values, respect for others, and love and support for one another.

The couple's love story began when they met at the age of five in Rosario, Argentina, where they quickly became close friends. They were introduced by Lucas Scaglia, Antonela's cousin and Messi's teammate. Even when Messi moved to Spain at the age of 13 to pursue his football career, they maintained contact. In a letter to Antonela during their youth, Messi wrote, "One day, we will get engaged."

A turning point in their relationship occurred in 2005 when Antonela suffered the loss of a close friend, prompting Messi to return to Argentina to support her. Their long-standing friendship blossomed into love, and they kept their relationship private for several years. Messi publicly acknowledged Antonela as his girlfriend in 2009, and she moved to Barcelona to live with him in 2010.

Over the years, they welcomed three sons: Thiago (2012), Mateo (2015), and Ciro (2018). The couple married on June 30, 2017, in Rosario, and they have remained closely bonded in both their personal and professional lives. Antonela has supported Messi in his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, participating in various humanitarian efforts to assist underprivileged children in Argentina. Meanwhile, she has also been building her own career, developing a children's fashion brand.

At 39, Messi is regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, having begun his career at a young age and joining Barcelona's youth academy at 13. He quickly rose to the first team and became an iconic figure, winning numerous titles, including La Liga, the Champions League, and multiple Ballon d'Or awards. Messi has represented Argentina since 2005, experiencing ups and downs before achieving the pinnacle of success with the Copa America 2021 and the World Cup 2022. Antonela, who is the same age as Messi, studied at the National University of Rosario and is now a model, influencer, and entrepreneur, having collaborated with major brands and graced the covers of prestigious fashion magazines.