Lionel Messi Celebrated with Princess of Asturias Sports Award in Spain
Lionel Messi Honoured in Spain
Argentine football icon Lionel Messi expressed his gratitude after being awarded the Princess of Asturias of Sports Award, calling it a significant honour. Following the award ceremony in Spain, Messi took to Instagram to share moments from the event, thanking the organizers and congratulating other recipients. He reflected on his time in Oviedo, stating, "It’s a privilege to receive the Princess of Asturias of Sports Award. Congratulations to all fellow awardees; it was wonderful to meet you and enjoy these days together. I appreciate @fundacionprincesadeasturias for this special recognition and am thankful for the love shown by everyone. It’s been a while since my last visit, and I truly enjoyed it. Sending a big hug to all!"
Career Recognition and Fan Reception
The 39-year-old forward for Inter Miami was celebrated on Friday, with numerous fans gathering in Oviedo to greet the 2022 FIFA World Cup champion. Accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, Messi engaged with supporters and signed autographs outside his hotel. The Princess of Asturias Award acknowledges remarkable achievements across various fields, and Messi was recognised for his outstanding football career, humility, and community contributions.
Reflecting on Responsibilities
In an interview with EFE during his visit, Messi discussed the responsibilities associated with being part of a club, emphasizing that it extends beyond just playing football. He remarked, "When you’re at Barcelona, it’s not solely about the game. Football results from various responsibilities you must manage before training or matches." His return to Spain attracted significant attention, with fans eager to see the Argentine star, who spent the majority of his career at Barcelona before his departure in 2021.
International Legacy
Earlier this month, Messi showcased his skills for Argentina in what was anticipated to be his final international match, scoring once and assisting twice in a 3-0 win over Benin in Buenos Aires. He assisted Nicolas Otamendi's opening goal in the 48th minute and set up Nico Paz for the second goal before converting a penalty to finalize the score. Throughout his international career, Messi has led Argentina to victories in the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2022 Finalissima, solidifying his status as one of the most decorated players in football history.