Big achievements

Lionel Messi opens up about his World Cup victory: 'It felt like when my kids were born'

Messi was one of the athletes present at an event in Miami

NOVEMBER 6, 2025 12:12 PM ESTNOV 6, 2025, 12:12 PM EST

Lionel Messi has accomplished some incredible things in his life. Arguably recognized as the world's best soccer player, Messi was one of the guests at the American Business Forum in Miami, serving as one of the biggest sporting personalities in attendance. Upon his appearance, Messi was welcomed with a standing ovation and opened up about many topics, including Argentina's World Cup win.

Antonela Roccuzzo wrote a very emotional and sweet message for Lionel Messi as he retires from Argentina's national team. — Lionel Messi opened up about winning the 2022 World Cup

When describing the 2022 World Cup win, Messi shared that the feeling of winning the tournament was one of the happiest of his life. "When we won the World Cup, I had the same feeling as when my sons were born. It's a feeling that's difficult to explain, so special and immense that anything I say about it will be insufficient," he said, per Marca.

Through his appearance, Messi also opened up about the challenges he faced in his career and how he overcame them.

"I faced difficult situations but I never doubted, I never stepped back, I always went after what I wanted, after my dreams. And we keep moving forward as a family. I've always said that God gave me a gift," he said.

While Messi has yet to confirm or deny whether he'll be a part of Argentina's squad for the 2026 World Cup, he shared his excitement for the cup, which will be hosted in the US. "I have high expectations and believe that the World Cup will be extraordinary."

Antonela Roccuzzo, his lifelong partner and the quiet force behind him, dedicated a simple but powerful Instagram message. — He compared the feeling of joy as the one he felt when his kids were born

Messi gets the key to the city

Earlier this week, Messi was honored to the key to the city of Miami. The recognition is one that places value on just how much Messi's impact has affected soccer in the US and how rapidly the athlete has woven himself into the fabric of the city.

"I have had the wish to give this [key] to you for all that you've done for our grand city, our country and the world of football, thank you," said Miami Mayor Francis Suarez.

Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo moved to Miami in 2023

While there were a lot of rumours surrounding the future of Messi's career, it seems like he has no intention of leaving Miami anytime soon. The 38 year old recently signed a three year deal with Inter Miami, planning to remain in the cityuntil the end of the 2028 MLS season.

"Thank you, I feel very honored by this," said Messi. "It's true that, as I just said, we feel very loved, very grateful, very happy to be living in this city, and to be able to have this distinction for me is a great honor, so thank you."