Lionel Messi, forward of the Inter Miami, presented himself in Oviedo on Friday to receive the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, a recognition that was announced to him on June 3, two months before the death of his father, Jorge Messi.
The award, presided over by the kings of Spain, is one of the most prestigious that recognizes the career of outstanding figures in the sports field. Messi expressed his emotion and gratitude for the distinction, highlighting that it transcends his achievements within the playing field and recognizes important aspects of his career and personal values.
The father’s illusion
In an interview granted to the EFE Agency at the Hotel of the Reconquest, the Argentine star remembered that his father had insisted on the importance of traveling to Asturias to receive the award personally, despite the sports schedule with the Inter Miami.
“My father was very excited about this recognition and told me that it was important to be there. Despite the difficulties that my agenda could represent, he wanted me to be present”, Messi said.
Family and professional values
The captain of the Qatar 2022 World Cup team also spoke about the values of commitment, respect, and solidarity that he received from his parents and that he now tries to transmit to his three children along with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.
“Football implies responsibilities that go beyond training and competing. The FC Barcelona taught me the importance of those values and how sport can be a force of unity and learning”, he explained.
Reception in Oviedo
Messi’s presence in the city generated great expectation among fans, including numerous Argentines who gathered at the hotel doors to receive the footballer. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Spanish Government, the University of Oviedo, and the Association of Football Clubs.
The award recognizes the career of one of the most outstanding figures in the history of world football, and for Messi represents a tribute with a deep personal and family meaning, given his long residence in Spain.
Credits: deultimominuto.com
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