Beyond the Pitch: The Inspiring Story of Antonela Roccuzzo, Lionel Messi Wife
Table of Contents
- Introduction: More Than Just a WAG
- Childhood Sweethearts: A Rosario Love Story
- Building Her Own Path: Education and Career
- Family First: Marriage, Motherhood, and Values
- Philanthropy and Influence: Using Her Platform for Good
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion: A Modern Power Couple
Introduction: Lionel Messi Wife More Than Just a WAG {#introduction}
When Lionel Messi lifted the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, the cameras didn’t just capture a footballer’s triumph—they captured a family’s dream. Cheering from the sidelines, dressed in Argentina’s blue and white, was his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, a woman whose own story is as compelling as her famous husband’s. Far from just being “Lionel Messi’s wife,” Antonela is a successful model, a savvy businesswoman, a dedicated philanthropist, and, above all, the grounding force in the life of one of the world’s most celebrated athletes. The story of Lionel Messi Wife is one of partnership and love.
For fans across the U.S. and the globe, the curiosity around the personal lives of icons like Messi is immense. Who is the woman who captured the heart of football’s greatest player? How does she balance life in the spotlight with raising a family? This is the story of Antonela Roccuzzo—a journey from Rosario, Argentina, to the world stage, defined by love, resilience, and an inspiring sense of self.
Childhood Sweethearts: A Rosario Love Story {#childhood-sweethearts}
Long before the luxury and global fame, Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo were just two kids from the same neighborhood in Rosario, Argentina. Their story isn’t a whirlwind Hollywood romance but a enduring tale of childhood connection that blossomed into a lifelong partnership.
- A Connection Through Family: Antonela wasn’t a random fan; she was the cousin of Messi’s childhood best friend and fellow soccer player, Lucas Scaglia. This meant they knew each other from the age of approximately five years old, growing up in the same tight-knit community .
- A Love Years in the Making: Despite Messi’s move to Barcelona at 13 to pursue his football dreams, the pair stayed in touch. A pivotal moment came in 2005 when Messi reportedly flew back to Argentina to support Antonela after the tragic death of her best friend in a car accident, strengthening their bond during a difficult time .
- Going Public: Though their relationship began in earnest around 2007, they kept it largely private. They officially confirmed their romance in 2009 and made their first major public appearance together at a carnival in Sitges, Spain, after a Barcelona match, sending the media into a frenzy .
Their foundation wasn’t built on fame or fortune, but on a shared history and deep-rooted understanding that has kept their relationship strong through decades of unimaginable pressure and spotlight.
Building Her Own Path: Education and Career {#career-education}
Many fans are curious about the woman behind the man. The answer lies in the inspiring journey of Lionel Messi Wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.
While Messi’s career was skyrocketing on the pitch, Antonela was diligently building her own identity. She is a powerful example of a woman who pursued her own ambitions alongside supporting her partner.
As Lionel Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo has navigated the complexities of fame and family life gracefully.
As Lionel Messi Wife, she embodies the spirit of their shared journey.
From their childhood in Rosario to the global stage, Lionel Messi Wife Antonela’s story is a testament to enduring love.
- The Dentist Who Never Was: Before becoming a model, Antonela was a dedicated student. She attended the National University of Rosario, where she initially studied dentistry. She later switched her major to social communication before ultimately leaving university to move to Barcelona and be with Messi .
- Modeling and Brand Ambassadorship: In Barcelona, Antonela carved out a successful career in front of the camera. She is a sought-after model and influencer, having worked with major international brands like Adidas, Stella McCartney, Alo Yoga, and Ricky Sarkany . Her Instagram profile, with a massive 40 million followers, is a testament to her influence and reach .
- Business Ventures: Antonela is also involved in the business world. She has been associated with The Messi Store, a luxury fashion brand, and manages a bustling portfolio of endorsements and collaborations .
A Timeline of Antonela Roccuzzo’s Career & Life
Family First: Marriage, Motherhood, and Values {#family-life}
Officially confirmed as a couple in 2009, Lionel Messi Wife Antonela Roccuzzo has been a constant in Messi’s life.
At the core of Antonela’s world is her family. Despite a life of luxury and constant public attention, she and Messi have created a remarkably normal and grounded upbringing for their three children.
As Lionel Messi Wife, Antonela balances ambition with family life.
- “The Wedding of the Century”: The couple tied the knot in a spectacular ceremony in their hometown of Rosario in June 2017. Dubbed “Argentina’s wedding of the century” by the media, the event was a star-studded affair attended by football royalty like Luis Suárez, Gerard Piqué, and Shakira .
- Their Three Boys: Antonela and Lionel are parents to three sons: Thiago (born 2012), Mateo (born 2015), and Ciro (born 2018) . The boys are often seen cheering on their father from the stands, both in Argentina and now in Miami.
- Parenting Philosophy: In a recent 2025 interview with Vogue México y Latinoamérica, Antonela opened up about her parenting values. She emphasized instilling humility, respect, and normalcy. “It’s fundamental that they know we are not better than anyone else,” she stated. “They still do the same activities as other kids: birthday parties, sleepovers, sports, school… We want them to feel normal.” She prioritizes open communication, discussing everything from social media to daily life with her boys .
This commitment to a stable family life provides a crucial sanctuary for Messi away from the football field and is a testament to Antonela’s role as the family’s anchor.
While pursuing her dreams, Lionel Messi Wife also supports her husband’s legendary career.
Through her various roles, Lionel Messi Wife continues to inspire many.
Philanthropy and Influence: Using Her Platform for Good {#philanthropy}
Antonela leverages her immense platform for more than just brand promotions. She is deeply committed to philanthropic work, often focusing on children’s welfare.
- UNICEF Ambassador: Antonela is a dedicated ambassador for UNICEF (the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund). In April 2023, she endorsed their #GuardavidasDeLaInfancia campaign to combat poverty and human rights violations against children in Argentina .
- Supporting the Special Olympics: She also works with the Special Olympics, using her influence to promote inclusion and opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities .
- The Leo Messi Foundation: While primarily led by her husband, the Leo Messi Foundation focuses on children’s education and healthcare. Antonela’s values are deeply aligned with its mission, and the family’s philanthropic efforts are a shared passion .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is Antonela Roccuzzo’s age and height?
Antonela Roccuzzo was born on February 26, 1988. As of 2025, she is 37 years old . While her exact height is not listed in the provided search results, she is often described as being of average height, appearing roughly the same height as Lionel Messi, who is 5’7″ (1.70 m) . - How did Lionel Messi and his wife meet?
They met as young children in their hometown of Rosario, Argentina. Antonela is the cousin of Messi’s childhood best friend, Lucas Scaglia, which is how they were introduced . - How many children do they have?
Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo have three sons: Thiago (born 2012), Mateo (born 2015), and Ciro (born 2018) . - What does Antonela Roccuzzo do for a living?
Antonela is a model, influencer, and businesswoman. She has worked with major brands like Adidas and Stella McCartney. She is also involved in philanthropic endeavors as an ambassador for UNICEF and the Special Olympics . - Is Antonela Roccuzzo on social media?
Yes, she is very active on Instagram, where she has over 40 million followers (@antonelaroccuzzo). She shares glimpses of her family life, professional projects, and philanthropic work .
Conclusion: A Modern Power Couple
Antonela Roccuzzo’s story is a powerful narrative of modern womanhood. She is far more than just Lionel Messi’s wife; she is his childhood sweetheart, the mother of his children, his most ardent supporter, and a successful, influential individual in her own right. From Rosario to Barcelona, Paris, and now Miami, she has maintained a fierce commitment to family, humility, and using her voice for good. Together, they form a global power couple built not on flashy headlines, but on a foundation of shared history, mutual respect, and unwavering love.
What do you find most inspiring about the story of Lionel Messi Wife? Is it her dedication to family, her successful career, or her philanthropic heart? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Every milestone is shared with Lionel Messi Wife Antonela, who plays a crucial role in their family life.
Through her philanthropic work, Lionel Messi Wife Antonela makes a significant impact.
As a UNICEF ambassador, Lionel Messi Wife Antonela is dedicated to making a difference.
While leading important initiatives, Lionel Messi Wife Antonela shows her commitment to social issues.
Frequently asked questions often include inquiries about Lionel Messi Wife and her achievements.
Ultimately, Lionel Messi Wife is not just defined by her relationship; she is a powerhouse in her own right.
In conclusion, the journey of Lionel Messi Wife Antonela Roccuzzo continues to inspire millions worldwide.