Lionel Andrés Messi Cuccittin better known as Lionel Messi is one of the best players in the world of football. The Barcelona forward might have had a forgetful outing at the on-going 2018 FIFA World Cup, but we all have been his fans. Messi has won 32 trophies in all which includes including nine La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League titles, and six Copas del Rey. Having won the prestigious a record-tying five Ballon d'Or award and 4 Golden Boots, it’s not very surprising that Messi is compared to the likes of footballing greats like Pele and Maradona. As Messi turns 31, we bring you 10 cool facts about Argentina forward.

  • At the tender age of 11, Messi was detected with a growth hormone deficiency. His parents could not afford his treatment, which was $900 a month.

  • At the age of 13, Messi impressed Barcelona boss Carles Rexach by his foot skills. Rexach agreed to pay his medical bills and asked his family to move to Spain.

  • Messi’s first contract was chalked on a tissue paper. Barcelona sporting director Carles Rexach was highly impressed with Messi’s skills and wanted to write down the contract ASAP. He was in need of a paper and couldn’t find one. So a paper napkin came to his rescue and the rest, as they say, is history.

  • He made his debut in 2005 but he lasted on the field for not more than 47 seconds as he was shown the red card.

  • Messi has two passports - Argentina and Spain.

  • He is nicknamed as ‘the Flea’ due to his speed and agility.

  • Messi loves listening to Samba and Cumbi music.

  • Messi is also the Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF.

  • Messi dated a hometown girl Macarena Lemos and has also been linked to Luciana Salazar, a model of Argentina. He now is happily married to Antonella Roccuzzo.

  • His net worth is reported to be $180 million.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 24, 2018 11:52 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).