Lionel Messi’s World Cup jersey’s auctioned for over $7.5 million in New York
Lionel Messi's jerseys become the largest sale of sporting material this year
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Messi's FIFA Jerseys at the auction (Source: SoccerBIBLE)
After a legendary campaign at the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi had set the world apart with his performances. Argentina’s maiden World Cup win came after almost 36 years. Another unbelievable feat was achieved by the Argentine. When the jerseys he wore during the matches were auctioned off recently in New York.
The jerseys were sold for a whopping $7.8 million at Sotheby’s. According to Sotheby’s, the sale has marked the highest price for sports artifacts this year. The jerseys represent a historical period for Argentina. Who won against France in a 3-3 penalty shootout, securing their third World Cup title.
Brahm Wachter, who is Sotheby’s head of modern collectibles, has highlighted the significance of the jerseys. He stated that they are tangible reminders of one of the most significant sporting moments. It can also be the pinnacle of Lionel Messi’s career as he has hinted towards a potential retirement from the Argentine National team.
A portion of the auction proceeds will be donated to the UNICAS Project, which supports children with rare diseases. The program will be held under the leadership of Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children’s Hospital in collaboration with the Leo Messi Foundation. All in all, the sale underscores the massive brand value of Lionel Messi as one of the greatest players of this generation and his ability to market almost anything he touches.
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When Lionel Messi addressed his teammate as ‘fat man’
Luis Suarez, reflecting on his time at Barcelona. He unveiled the lighthearted origin of the renowned ‘MSN‘ partnership with Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. During Suarez’s six-year tenure at the Nou Camp, the trio secured 13 major trophies, including one Champions League and four La Liga titles. Their stellar collaboration reached its pinnacle in the 2015 Champions League final, where Barcelona triumphed 3-1 over Juventus.
Suarez, recounting the inception of their formidable alliance, shared that Messi playfully nicknamed him the “fat man” during a group game against Ajax in 2014. The jest evolved into strategic advice, with Messi encouraging Suarez to stay in the central position, marking the commencement of the MSN era.
In Suarez’s debut season at Camp Nou, manager Luis Enrique initially positioned Messi as a false nine, flanked by Neymar and Suarez. However, Messi’s playful instruction to “stay in the nine position” led to a tactical adjustment, setting the stage for their successful collaboration and eventual Champions League victory.
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Rajveer Gupta
(137 Articles Published)