20 Lesser known facts about Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi, often considered one of the greatest football players of all time, has a life beyond the soccer field that is filled with interesting and lesser-known details. Explore some fascinating facts about the legendary Argentine:

1. Lionel Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency as a child, which led to his relocation from Argentina to Barcelona for treatment and ultimately, his football career.

2. His first contract with Barcelona was famously written on a napkin, highlighting the trust the club had in his potential.

3. Messi is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has been actively involved in various charitable endeavors, including supporting healthcare and education projects.

4. He has won the FIFA Ballon d'Or award multiple times, making him one of the most decorated footballers in history.

5. Messi holds the record for the most goals scored in a calendar year, surpassing the previous record held by Gerd Müller.

6. He is known for his humility and sportsmanship, often displaying respect for opponents and acknowledging the efforts of fellow players.

7. Lionel Messi's famous goal celebration, pointing to the sky while looking upward, is a tribute to his grandmother who passed away when he was a child.

8. Messi's left leg is noticeably shorter than his right, a physical trait that doesn't hinder his incredible skills on the field.

9. He is an all-time top scorer for both Barcelona and the Argentina national team, showcasing his consistent goal-scoring prowess.

10. Messi is a fan of video games, with Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) being one of his favorites. He has also appeared on the cover of the FIFA video game series.

11. He overcame health challenges early in his career, including being told he might never grow tall enough to become a professional footballer.

12. Lionel Messi has a foundation called the Leo Messi Foundation, dedicated to improving education and healthcare for vulnerable children.

13. Despite being a football icon, Messi enjoys a relatively private life, avoiding the limelight outside of his professional commitments.

14. His iconic No. 10 jersey at Barcelona was inherited from Ronaldinho, who recognized Messi's talent and suggested he take the number.

15. Messi has a rare condition called "Gastrocnemius," which makes his calf muscles unusually short, contributing to his low center of gravity and agility.

16. He is the only player to score against every team in a single La Liga season, demonstrating his incredible consistency.

17. Messi became Barcelona's all-time leading scorer, surpassing the previous record held by the legendary Paulino Alcántara.

18. He has a close friendship with fellow footballer Luis Suárez, and their families often spend vacations together.

19. Lionel Messi's skill set includes not only scoring goals but also being an exceptional playmaker with precise passing and vision.

20. He has a tradition of kissing his mother's forehead after scoring a goal, showcasing his strong family bonds.