Off the pitch, the 39-year-old continues to maintain an impeccable reputation. However, this did not prevent baseless speculation about Messi’s personal life from spreading online, and even involving Telefe journalist Sofi Martínez. After Argentina’s hard-fought defeat to Cape Verde in the second round, Messi deliberately approached her and playfully mocked the infidelity allegations surrounding them.
“When I look at you, they ask why they look at you. And when I say hello, they ask why they say hello,” a smiling Messi said after the two shared a warm embrace.
A grateful Sophie replied, “This is all a lie.”
Sophie also has the support of Antonella Roccuzzo, Messi’s wife and mother of his three children. Antonella Roccuzzo first contacted Sofi during Argentina’s World Cup-winning campaign four years ago when speculation was initially swirling.
Sophie revealed the message she received from Antonella, which read: “Sophie, don’t worry, ignore the nonsense.”
The journalist previously addressed this rumor and the impact it had on both herself and her family.
“With increased exposure, often not-so-good things happen, and families suffer a lot,” she told Argentinian program Podemos Habral.
“This year, people started talking more and more about things like, ‘How does he see you?’ and I just got caught up in it and felt like it was ridiculous to have to clarify.”
Sophie believes she was targeted because of her gender.
Meanwhile, a colleague who requested anonymity told the German newspaper Bild: “Sophie is a very calm person. She wants nothing to do with this whole drama. Messi’s life is so orderly that some people have to invent scandals.”
With Argentina facing either Colombia or Switzerland in the last eight, Messi’s focus will be firmly back on matters on the pitch, but England could stand in his way if they reach the semi-finals.
