Lionel Messi, the Argentinian football icon, received a ceremonial baton in an unusual tribute organized by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL). The event, which took place on 28 March 2023, handed Messi the symbolic “leadership and command of world football.”
The emotionally charged ceremony was also marked by the unveiling of a life-size statue of Messi for the first time. The football star, visibly moved by the gesture, was surrounded by his family, friends, and a large number of fans who had gathered to witness the occasion.
The tribute aimed to honor Messi’s incredible contribution to the sport throughout his illustrious career, which has seen him break numerous records and win countless accolades. Messi, who began his professional journey with Barcelona before moving to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, has been a cornerstone of the Argentinian national team for more than a decade.
During the ceremony, CONMEBOL officials praised Messi’s achievements and noted his ongoing influence on the sport. In a statement, they expressed their hope that the baton would serve as a reminder of Messi’s exceptional talent and dedication, inspiring generations of footballers to come.
The life-size statue of the football legend, captures the athlete in a dynamic pose, reflecting his agility and skill on the field. As fans snapped photos and marveled at the artwork, many shared their admiration for Messi and his impact on the sport.
This unique tribute is the latest in a series of honors bestowed upon Messi, who has already been named the Ballon d’Or winner on multiple occasions and is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.