‘I’m very sensitive; I cry during movies’

Lionel Messi is arguably the greatest soccer player in the world. Known for his intelligent approach on the soccer field, his masterful passes, and his uncanny ability to score goals, Messi is also known for his calm and composed attitude in his day-to-day life. Based in Miami with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three kids, the Messi family is known for their normalcy and their desire to lead private lives. 

In a new interview, Messi shared some details of his personality, likely ones that left many of his fans and followers by surprise. “I’m sensitive — I get emotional with movies,” he said in an interview with Nico Occhiato and Diego Leuco on Luzu TV. The comment was made after he was asked about the most recent thing that had made him cry. 

Messi made it clear that naming one specific reason wasn’t easy. “I cry during movies sometimes. I don’t remember which one; I don’t even know when the last time was,” he said, smiling.

© Shaun Botterill – FIFA

He explained that watching movies is an immersive experience for him. “I really live it,” he said, clarifying that his investment depended on “the moment and the movie.” This characteristic of Messi is something that his wife is aware of, with the two often watching movies together as another opportunity to bond.

“We watch a lot of movies based on true stories, and those tend to hit me harder,” he said.

A devoted family man

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Messi also used the opportunity of the interview to talk about his role as a husband and father. He revealed that while he may not be overly expressive, as a partner, he considers himself thoughtful, especially when it comes to showing affection. 

In the midst of demanding training schedules, professional commitments, and raising their kids, Messi and Roccuzzo, who are childhood sweethearts who met in Rosario, Argentina, prioritize small and meaningful gestures when it comes to their dynamic. 

Roccuzzo has long been a supporter of Messi. Nowadays, she shares glimpses of her family’s life, sharing updates, videos, and photos of special occasions like Christmas, New Year’s celebrations, and family birthdays. The snapshots show a different side of the soccer icon, one who prioritizes his family, his traditions —  like his lifelong habit of drinking mate —  and his devotion to his children. 

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