Messi’s Joyful Reunion with Roberto Baggio
As Lionel Messi approaches his 38th birthday, an unanticipated reunion brought unexpected joy to the soccer superstar. While his wife Antonella might have been pondering a birthday gift, Messi found an early present waiting for him in the form of the legendary Roberto Baggio during his training session at Inter Miami’s Florida Blue facility. Baggio was in town for the Club World Cup and made a special trip to reconnect with Messi, ignoring the tedious Florida traffic that lay between them.
Passion for the Game
Baggio, a revered figure in the world of football, has always played with a specific passion: his goal was never the wealth or fame but simply to entertain the fans.
“To entertain the people, that’s what I lived for. It was my dream since I was a kid,”
Baggio expressed, emphasizing that this mindset remained consistent throughout his career. Messi appears to have instilled the same sense of joy and inspiration in his supporters, creating a parallel between the two stars when they finally met.
A Heartfelt Gift
The Italian legend gifted Messi a treasured match jersey worn during the 1994 World Cup held in the USA. Baggio recounted seeing Messi’s emotional reaction as he delicately handled the jersey, setting the tone for what was a heartfelt encounter. Shortly after their meeting, Messi posted a picture of them on Instagram, which quickly garnered a million likes. In his post, Messi expressed gratitude for the exceptional gift and noted the great conversation they shared, calling Baggio a football icon and welcoming him back anytime.
Humility and Authenticity
Despite his iconic status, Baggio remains remarkably grounded. Known for his humility, he deflects any notion of celebrity, claiming,
“I’ve never felt like a star; I’m just one of the billions of people here.”
His perspective on fame echoes novelist John Updike‘s remark that
“fame is a mask that eats the famous.”
Baggio has certainly opted for authenticity, choosing to remain true to himself in his tranquil existence.
A Simple Life
Living in a rural area near Vicenza, Italy, Baggio enjoys a quiet life steeped in tradition. He spends his days tending to his land, away from the hustle of modern life, and engages in hobbies like hunting and craftsmanship. His simple passions reflect a connection with nature, contrasting sharply with the glamour of top-flight football.
Reflections on Career and Life
Reflecting on his football career, the retired striker spoke candidly about the physical toll the sport took on him, particularly the chronic injuries that led him to view his retirement as a liberation. Baggio’s journey into Buddhism provided him not only a source of strength but also a sense of serenity that continues to guide him through life’s challenges.
“I wouldn’t be who I am without those experiences,”
he affirmed, revealing the deeper layers of his character that formed through adversity.
Commitment to Football
Baggio remains a devoted fan of football, following the sport closely and attending notable games, including Boca Juniors matches as part of his long-held admiration for the club. His love for Argentine culture runs deep, with a ranch in La Pampa serving as a refuge where he takes time to unwind and reconnect with cherished family memories.
Engagement with Future Generations
Despite the passage of time since his retirement from the sport, Baggio stays engaged with football. His ambassadorial roles with Serie A and attendance at youth events show his commitment to nurturing the next generation of players. Although he briefly held a technical position within the Italian Football Federation, he emphasizes his desire for a holistic approach to youth development, prioritizing character over pure talent.
Finding Freedom and Happiness
As he embraces a more freedom-filled life, Baggio appreciates the opportunity to reconnect with football on his terms while balancing family life and personal happiness.
“At a certain point, I chose freedom above all else,”
he reveals, shedding light on the contentment he has found off the field. Just like Messi’s joyful encounter with Baggio, their meeting transcended mere star-studded status and allowed for a reminder of the pure joy that football can bring to those who love the game.
