Lionel Messi Celebrated with Monumental Tribute as He Turns 39

A Grand Tribute to a Football Legend

As Lionel Messi approaches his 39th birthday, fans are finding increasingly extravagant ways to celebrate his remarkable achievements. Just two days after surpassing Miroslav Klose's record for the most goals in World Cup history with his 17th and 18th goals during a 2-0 win against Austria, Messi is once again in the spotlight. The adoration for Messi has surged during the FIFA World Cup 2026, highlighted by the unveiling of an impressive 85-foot statue in Patagonia and a fan-created mural that has garnered attention nationwide.

Argentina's Unique Tribute to Messi

This monumental statue, located on the outskirts of Cutral Co in southern Argentina, was officially unveiled on June 16, coinciding with the start of Argentina's World Cup journey. It stands as the largest tribute ever made for the Argentine captain, who celebrates his birthday on Wednesday. Sculptor Aldo Beroisa dedicated 18 months to crafting this masterpiece. "He is Argentina's natural ambassador. For me, it was very important, not only as an artist but as an Argentine," Beroisa shared with the media. The statue captures one of Messi's most memorable moments: his heartfelt celebration after Argentina's triumph in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, along with his signature gesture of looking skyward while holding Argentina's jersey in memory of his late grandmother.