Argentina win the 2022 Qatar World Cup, defeating defending champions FranceLionel Messi(Photographer: Stephen Nadler/ISI/Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos)
Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine footballer has once again made an unforgettable impact on the sports world. Six of Messi’s match-worn Argentina shirts from the historic 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar were sold at auction for a staggering $7.8 million, setting a new record for an item associated with the Argentine star. This remarkable sale also makes these shirts the most valuable sporting memorabilia auctioned this year, according to Sotheby’s, the prestigious auction house that facilitated the transaction.
A Tribute to Messi’s Distinguished Career
The auction featured Lionel Messi’s iconic light blue and white Argentina shirts, adorned with vertical stripes, that he wore during the 2022 World Cup. These shirts hold immense significance as they bear witness to Messi’s unprecedented achievements and his instrumental role in Argentina’s triumph at the tournament. In the final match against France, Argentina emerged victorious in a thrilling penalty shootout, securing their third World Cup title. Messi, showcasing his exceptional skills, contributed two of Argentina’s three goals, solidifying his position as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Brahm Wachter, the head of modern collectibles at Sotheby’s, aptly described the shirts as not just mementos of a historic sporting event but also symbols of Messi’s unparalleled career. He stated, “These historic shirts are not only a tangible reminder of one of the most important moments in the history of sports but are principally connected to the pinnacle moment in the career of the most decorated football player in history.”
The Record-Breaking Auction
Sotheby’s had high hopes that the Messi shirts would establish a new record for the sale of game-worn sports memorabilia. Although they fell short of surpassing the current record held by Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $10.1 million, the sale of Messi’s shirts remains a significant achievement. The auction attracted three bids, ultimately culminating in the astounding $7.8 million sale.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
Apart from setting records and captivating football enthusiasts, the auction of Messi’s shirts also serves a noble purpose. Sotheby’s pledged to donate a portion of the proceeds to the UNICAS Project, an initiative led by Sant Joan de Deu Barcelona Children’s Hospital in collaboration with the Leo Messi Foundation. This charitable endeavor aims to support children afflicted by rare diseases, providing them with the care and resources they desperately need.
Messi’s Remarkable Professional Journey
Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami in the MLS, enjoyed a remarkable 17-year tenure at Barcelona before embarking on a new chapter in his career. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of his generation, Messi has amassed numerous accolades and shattered numerous records. He has received the prestigious Ballon d’Or, which recognizes the game’s best player, a record-breaking eight times.
Conclusion
The sale of Lionel Messi’s match-worn shirts from the 2022 World Cup for $7.8 million stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent and enduring legacy. These shirts encapsulate the pinnacle of his career and symbolize Argentina’s triumph on the grandest stage of football. Beyond the astronomical price tag, this auction has also provided an opportunity to support a worthy cause, underscoring Messi’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realm of sports. As fans continue to marvel at Messi’s remarkable achievements, his legacy as one of football’s greatest icons remains firmly intact.
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