Lionel Messi's Father Jorge Messi Undergoing Medical Supervision

Buenos Aires. Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi's father Jorge Messi is undergoing health problems, his family has informed. In a statement released on Thursday, the family informed that Jorge Messi is currently under medical supervision and his health condition is gradually improving. 

The statement did not provide further details about the nature or condition of his health problems. The family has urged to stay away from various rumors, speculations, and unconfirmed news and requested to respect privacy.

"Responsibility, restraint, and human sensitivity are necessary at such times. A person's health condition and the family's mental peace should not be made a subject of speculation or irresponsible interest," the statement said. The family expressed gratitude for the goodwill, respect, and interest being received and urged to maintain the privacy of Jorge Messi and the entire family.

Argentine television presenter Florencia Peña had broadcast false news of Jorge's death. Messi's eyes were seen in tears after scoring the first goal in the match against Algeria. At that time, Peña, who was broadcasting live from Argentina's Luz TV, had said that she had bad news and that Messi's father had just passed away. Peña had to leave her job after her news was proven false.

Earlier on Tuesday, Messi had said in a press conference after the match against Algeria in the FIFA World Cup that he had been going through some difficult days. He said that the reason for being emotional after his first goal in the match was not related to football. "I have been through some difficult and complicated days. But my teammates supported me as always and kept me strong," he said.

The family's statement came a week after the start of the 2026 World Cup and two days after Argentina won their first match against Algeria. Messi scored a hat-trick against Algeria, giving Argentina a 3-0 victory. With that, he equaled the record of Germany's Miroslav Klose by taking his total World Cup goals to 16. Messi will turn 39 on June 24. This is his sixth World Cup. Argentina won the previous World Cup.