Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who remains an important player for Paris Saint-Germain and the Argentina national team. He is currently playing at a high level after helping his nation secure the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy in Qatar recently.
Messi has established himself as one of the greatest players of his generation and continues to perform at his best when the spotlight is on him. However, he had to overcome a lot of struggles in his life.
Standing at 1.70m, he has got a short frame but has still gone on to taste plenty of success in both club and international football.
Why Is Lionel Messi Short?
Lionel Messi has got a short frame as he was diagnosed with a growth hormone disorder at a tender age. However, Barcelona decided to pay for his medical expenses at the time when he was listed as 4’2″.
Messi overcame his diagnosis and had a height of 5’7″ during the latter stage of his Barca career which was the average height for an Argentinean male. He went on to become a club legend at the Nou Camp and has now fulfilled his childhood dream of winning the World Cup with Argentina. His tale remains an inspiring one for any up-and-coming footballer.
What Illness Was Messi Diagnosed With?
At a young age, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone disorder but Barca decided to pay his medical bills so that he would join their youth set-up.
Fast forward to 2022 and Messi has become a World champion at the age of 35 after helping Argentina secure a win on penalties versus France in the World Cup final which was held at the Lusail Iconic Stadium recently.
Messi has continued to defy the odds by overcoming his prior medical problems and tasting success at the biggest stage of football even when father time is slowly catching up with his game. He has scored 19 goals and grabbed 19 assists in 27 matches for both his club and country this season across all competitions.
We salute the Argentine magician for all the success that he has achieved as a footballer despite having the odds stacked against him.