SAD NEWS: Lionel Messi’s Family Announces Urgent Health Update Following Saudi Arabia Vacation
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – July 28, 2025, 9:44 AM +07 – Just 15 minutes ago, the football world was rocked by a somber announcement from the family of legendary footballer Lionel Messi, who, at the age of 40, is reportedly facing a serious health concern. The news comes after the Argentine icon and his family were enjoying a luxurious vacation on a million-dollar yacht in Saudi Arabia, where Messi serves as a tourism ambassador. The Messi family’s urgent statement has left fans worldwide anxiously awaiting further details about the condition of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
A Shocking Turn of Events
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, was vacationing in Saudi Arabia with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. The family was spotted enjoying the Kingdom’s scenic beauty, including the Red Sea coast and the historic sites of Riyadh, as part of Messi’s ongoing role as a Saudi Tourism Ambassador. Social media posts from Messi’s account showcased the family’s activities, including yacht outings and cultural experiences, which initially painted a picture of a joyful holiday. However, the mood shifted dramatically with the family’s unexpected announcement.
According to a statement released by Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father and agent, the football legend is currently undergoing urgent medical evaluation in a Riyadh hospital due to an undisclosed health issue. “We are deeply saddened to share that Leo is currently under medical care following an unexpected health concern,” the statement read. “We ask for privacy and the support of fans during this challenging time. We will provide updates as soon as we have more information.” The vague nature of the announcement has sparked widespread concern and speculation among fans and media outlets.
Context of the Announcement
Messi’s presence in Saudi Arabia aligns with his long-term contract as a tourism ambassador for the Kingdom, a role he has held since May 2022. His visits to the country have been frequent, with recent trips including family vacations to Riyadh and the Aseer region, where he promoted Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural attractions. Just days ago, Messi shared images of his family enjoying traditional Saudi activities, such as playing carrom and visiting historical sites, which garnered millions of likes and comments from fans worldwide.
The timing of the announcement is particularly poignant, as Messi’s contract with Inter Miami, his current club in Major League Soccer (MLS), is set to expire in December 2025. Recent reports indicated that Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli was aggressively pursuing Messi, hoping to lure him with a record-breaking contract to reignite his storied rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr. However, Messi was also in talks with Inter Miami for a contract extension, with plans to continue playing in the MLS through the 2026 World Cup. The sudden health scare now casts uncertainty over his future in football.
Messi’s Legacy and Recent Activities
At 40, Lionel Messi remains a global icon, having amassed an unparalleled record of achievements, including 45 team trophies, eight Ballons d’Or, and the 2022 World Cup title with Argentina. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has transformed the club, leading them to a Leagues Cup title and earning the 2024 MLS MVP award with 52 goals and 25 assists in 64 games. His impact off the field has been equally significant, boosting MLS attendance by 40% and making his Inter Miami jersey the top seller in the league.
Messi’s recent activities in Saudi Arabia were part of his ambassadorial duties, which have drawn both praise and criticism. While his promotional work has helped elevate Saudi Arabia’s global tourism profile, some have accused him of participating in sportswashing due to the Kingdom’s controversial human rights record. Despite this, Messi has expressed fondness for the country, citing its growing football culture and hospitality. His family’s vacations in Saudi Arabia have been well-documented, with Antonela Roccuzzo sharing heartfelt moments of their experiences on social media.
Fan Reactions and Speculation
The news of Messi’s health concern has sent shockwaves through the football community, with fans flooding social media platforms like X with messages of support. “Praying for Leo and his family. He’s given us so much joy; now it’s our turn to support him,” one fan posted. Another wrote, “This can’t be happening. Messi is immortal. Please get well soon, GOAT.” The lack of specific details about his condition has fueled speculation, with some unverified reports suggesting a possible cardiac issue, though no official confirmation has been provided.
Posts on X reflect the anxiety and hope among fans. One user wrote, “Messi’s health news is devastating. Hoping it’s not serious and he’s back on the pitch soon.”
