Antonela Roccuzzo, the wife of soccer superstar Lionel Messi, is much more than just a partner to one of the world’s greatest athletes. Born and raised in Rosario, Argentina, Roccuzzo has been a pillar of strength and support for Messi throughout his illustrious career. Their love story, which began in childhood, has blossomed into a life filled with mutual respect, admiration, and a shared commitment to family.
Childhood Friends to Lifelong Partners
Antonela Roccuzzo and Lionel Messi’s journey together started in their hometown of Rosario. The pair met as children and formed a deep bond. Messi moved to Spain as a teenager to pursue his soccer career, but their connection remained strong. In 2005, tragedy struck when Roccuzzo’s best friend, Ursula Notz, died in a car accident. Messi flew back to Argentina to comfort Roccuzzo, marking the beginning of their romantic relationship.
Building a Family Together
The couple’s relationship grew stronger over the years, and they welcomed their first son, Thiago, in 2012. Their second son, Mateo, was born in 2015, and their third son, Ciro, arrived in 2018. In June 2017, Roccuzzo and Messi tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Rosario, dubbed the “wedding of the century.” The event was attended by Messi’s teammates, Shakira, and her then-partner Gerard Piqué.
Career and Personal Achievements
Roccuzzo is not just a supportive spouse; she is an accomplished individual in her own right. She attended the National University of Rosario, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in humanities and social sciences and began postgraduate studies in dentistry before deciding to move closer to Messi. In November 2016, she signed a modeling contract with designer Ricky Sarkany. She and her friend Sofia Balbi, the wife of soccer player Luis Suárez, opened Barcelona’s boutique for the Argentinean footwear brand Sarkany.
Roccuzzo has also worked with several fitness brands, including Adidas and Stella McCartney. Her career in modeling and brand endorsements showcases her versatility and business acumen.
A Dedicated Mother and Partner
As a mother, Roccuzzo plays a crucial role in raising their three sons. Messi has often spoken about how having children changed his perspective on life, both on and off the field. The family enjoys spending quality time together, whether watching TV, playing, or simply relaxing at home.
Roccuzzo’s support extends to Messi’s professional life as well. She is frequently seen cheering him on during his matches. In December 2022, she celebrated Messi and the Argentina national football team making the World Cup final with an Instagram post. A few days later, she and their sons were in the stands to watch Messi win the World Cup.
Life in the Spotlight
Despite their fame, Roccuzzo and Messi have managed to keep a sense of normalcy in their lives. Roccuzzo is active on Instagram, where she shares glimpses of their family life and promotes her modeling career. With over 35 million followers, she has a significant social media presence, although she does not have Twitter or Facebook accounts.
Moving to Miami
In the summer of 2023, the family made a significant move when Messi joined the U.S.-based Major League Soccer team in Miami. The transition appeared smooth, with the family quickly settling into their new environment. Roccuzzo and Messi were seen enjoying a night out with David and Victoria Beckham, celebrating Messi’s introduction to the team.
A Loving Tribute
Throughout their journey together, Roccuzzo has paid tribute to those she loves and remembers. In 2019, she honored her late friend Ursula Notz in a series of Instagram Stories to raise awareness about traffic accidents in Rosario. Her heartfelt messages reflect her deep compassion and commitment to making a difference.
Celebrating Success
Roccuzzo has been by Messi’s side during many of his career milestones. In May 2023, she accompanied him to the Laureus World Sports Awards in Paris, where Messi won the Laureus World Sportsman and the Laureus World Team of the Year awards. Her pride in his achievements is evident in her social media posts, where she often expresses her admiration and support for her husband.
Conclusion
Antonela Roccuzzo is an integral part of Lionel Messi’s life, providing unwavering support and love. Her journey from a childhood friend to a dedicated mother and accomplished professional highlights her strength and resilience. As Messi continues to achieve greatness on the soccer field, Roccuzzo remains a steadfast partner, celebrating his successes and navigating life’s challenges with grace and determination. Their story is a testament to the power of love, family, and unwavering support.
