antonela roccuzzo, shakira (foto: Instagram)
The Colombian superstar praised Messi’s discipline and longevity before recognising the strength and inspiration provided by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.
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Shakira has paid a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, following Argentina’s dramatic qualification for a second consecutive World Cup final.
The Colombian singer published her message on Instagram after Argentina’s 2-1 semi-final victory over England. Messi created both late goals as the defending champions overturned a deficit and booked Sunday’s final against Spain.
Shakira shared a photograph of the Argentina captain celebrating and praised the discipline, commitment and resilience that have allowed him to remain decisive at the age of 39.
“What Leo Messi is doing is beyond extraordinary,” Shakira wrote.
“It shows the values of a man who is deeply committed and disciplined, challenging time and all odds. Proving that a person is not defined by age or by what others say.”
Her message then moved beyond Messi’s performances on the pitch. Shakira highlighted the role played by Antonela, who has accompanied Messi throughout almost his entire senior career.
“And I know that having a woman like Antonela Roccuzzo by his side gives him the strength and inspiration to prove that,” she added.
Antonela responded by sharing Shakira’s tribute on her own Instagram Story, adding a tearful emoji and a white heart.
The exchange quickly attracted attention from supporters, who praised Shakira for acknowledging the personal support behind one of football’s greatest careers.
Messi and Antonela have known each other since childhood in Rosario and began their relationship long before the Argentine reached the peak of world football. They married in 2017 and have three sons, Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.
Shakira has known the Messi family through her long association with Barcelona. Her former partner, Gerard Piqué, spent more than a decade playing alongside Messi during the most successful period in the club’s history.
Piqué and Messi won multiple La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies together. Their families consequently belonged to the same Barcelona football circle for many years.
Claims of an especially close long-term friendship between Shakira and Antonela should be treated cautiously, but the warmth of the latest public exchange was unmistakable.
The tribute also carries additional significance because Shakira will be directly involved in Sunday’s final.
The 49-year-old recorded “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 World Cup, and will perform during the tournament’s first final half-time show at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Messi enters the match against Spain with eight goals and four assists at the tournament. His two assists against England carried Argentina into their second consecutive final and kept alive the possibility of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the trophy.
Sunday could also bring the final international appearance of Messi’s career. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has described him as “pure history” and encouraged supporters to appreciate every remaining moment.
Shakira’s message celebrated more than another exceptional performance. It recognised the discipline required to remain at the highest level and the family support that has accompanied Messi throughout his journey.
Before Messi attempts to make history against Spain, Shakira made sure that Antonela’s contribution was not forgotten.