Messi's Fairytale Love: 9-Year-Old Crush Became World Champion's Rock

• Lionel Messi's love story with Antonela Roccuzzo began in childhood in Rosario, Argentina, when he was 9 years old.
• They were separated when Messi moved to Barcelona for medical treatment but reconnected after a tragic event in Antonela's life in 2005.
• The couple married in 2017 in Rosario, a ceremony described as the "wedding of the century," and now have three sons.
• Antonela has been a constant source of support throughout Messi's career, including his moves to Paris and Miami.

Why It Matters: It highlights a rare, enduring love story in the often-fleeting world of celebrity relationships.