Messi’s Nephew Reflects on Family and Challenges of Fame

Lionel Messi’s nephew and godson, Tomas Messi, recently shared insights about his famous uncle and the challenges faced by their family due to his immense fame. In an interview with LA NACION, Tomas revealed, “We have also suffered a lot as a family,” highlighting the emotional weight that accompanies Messi’s status as one of the world’s greatest footballers.

Tomas, who has pursued a career in journalism rather than football, operates a streaming platform in Rosario, Argentina. He expressed admiration for Messi’s dedication to family, despite the pressures of his career. Their relationship remains strong, with Tomas noting, “He makes sure to check in on you, we visit him whenever we can, and he also comes when he can, especially during the holidays and when the national team plays in Argentina.”

Messi recently played what could have been his final match for the Argentine national team at the Estadio Monumental during a World Cup qualifier against Venezuela. Tomas described this moment as emotional for the entire family. “Everything that has happened in recent years has been pure joy,” he stated. “Now we are a little sad after the last official match. It’s the final stretch, as everyone says, and we never want it to end, but the truth is that what he is experiencing is beautiful.”

Despite the joy Messi brings, the family faces challenges linked to his fame. “On the other hand, we have also suffered a lot as a family,” Tomas added. “But we are always there for each other. He relies on us and we help him.” He emphasized that when they are together, they treat Messi just like any other family member. “He is relaxed, he is just another uncle and not a public figure or the best footballer in the world.”

As speculation grows about Messi’s potential participation in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Tomas mentioned that his uncle has not discussed his plans. “He doesn’t say anything about it,” Tomas explained, adding that ultimately, Messi will decide when to step away from the game.

Family gatherings for the Messis involve a mix of love and organization, despite their geographical distances. Tomas described how they manage to come together, with family members taking on roles during their gatherings. “When we get together, everyone has a job: someone is in charge of the barbecue, someone else is in charge of the snacks. We’re well organized,” he shared, bringing a sense of warmth to the narrative.

In discussing his own football aspirations, Tomas reflected on how injuries affected his career. He noted, “He always supported me,” referring to Messi’s encouragement during tough times. Even after deciding to move away from football, the conversation quickly shifted to Tomas’s new venture in streaming, showcasing Messi’s adaptability and support.

Tomas admitted that the weight of the Messi surname was initially a burden. “At the time, my surname affected me. I felt it was a burden because it seemed like I had to be just like my uncle,” he said. However, he has learned to handle the pressure and now focuses more on his own path. “I didn’t care what people thought or said,” he concluded, emphasizing his personal growth.

Through Tomas’s reflections, it becomes clear that while Messi is a global icon, to his family, he remains the uncle who values family bonds above all else. The Messi family navigates the complexities of fame together, supporting one another through the ups and downs of life in the public eye.