From Dreamer to Achiever: Lionel Messi Honored with Life-Size Statue at CONMEBOL Headquarters
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, unveiled a life-size statue of himself holding a replica of the World Cup trophy at the South American Football Federation (CONMEBOL) headquarters in Luque, Paraguay. The statue will join those of his predecessors Diego Maradona and Pele at the South American federation's museum.
The unveiling ceremony took place on Monday, just before the Copa Libertadores draw. Messi, 35, spoke at the ceremony and expressed his gratitude for the honor. "I had never dreamed or thought about this. My dream was to enjoy what I liked when I was little, to be a professional soccer player, to do what I always loved in this life," said Messi.
Messi's journey to success has been long and challenging, but he has never lost sight of his dreams. "I had a very long road, many decisions and defeats, but I always looked ahead and wanted to go for a triumph, for a victory," said Messi. "I think that is the most important thing, to fight for your dreams, that everything is possible and to enjoy the game, which is the most beautiful thing there is."
Messi's World Cup victory last year has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. He led Argentina to their first World Cup triumph in 36 years in Qatar in December, emulating the late Maradona, who had led the team to victory in the 1986 World Cup.
In addition to the life-size statue, Messi and the Argentina team were also presented with miniature trophies of the World Cup and the Copa America, which they won in 2021. Furthermore, the Argentine Football Federation renamed the national team's training facility after Messi on Saturday, in recognition of his contributions to the sport.
Messi's remarkable achievements in soccer continue to inspire people around the world. He has scored 99 goals for his country and could become the first Argentina player to score 100 international goals if he scores in Tuesday's friendly against Curacao.
