Lionel Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, appears to have confirmed the significance of a new celebration that garnered attention following Inter Miami’s impressive 4-0 victory over Atlanta United.
It was a memorable night for the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, as he scored twice, securing Inter Miami’s spot in the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup.
After netting the opening goal in the eighth minute, the 36-year-old swiftly added another, converting from close range.
Shortly thereafter, Messi directed a celebratory gesture towards his sons Thiago, Ciro, and Mateo, his wife Antonela, and his mother, Celia. They were all elated to witness the Argentine continue his excellent start to life in Florida.
Initially, many presumed that Messi’s celebration was a ‘hold my beer’ gesture, but Antonela has since provided an update revealing the true meaning behind it.
Messi to David Beckham after scoring 😂 pic.twitter.com/3V0S5temHm
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 26, 2023
On Thursday night, the model and businesswoman took to her Instagram story and posted a picture of Messi executing the celebration, accompanied by a GIF related to Thor.
Surprisingly, Thiago Messi’s favorite superhero happens to be the Marvel character Thor, and his dad, Lionel Messi, wanted to pay tribute to the Asgardian god of thunder.
Hence, he mimicked Thor’s iconic pose by extending his hand expectantly, as if waiting for the mighty hammer to arrive.
That’s according to Spanish publicationAS, who say Messi smiled after seeing the ‘crazy’ reaction of his sons after he pulled off the celebration mid-game.
As you can see from the footage above, Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham can be seen smiling at Messi as he celebrated by using the Thor gesture.
Messi’s arrival is arguably Major League Soccer’s biggest to date, and soon after the deal was officially announced, a delighted Beckham opened up on the ‘dream’ signing.
“Ten years ago, when I started my journey to build a new team in Miami, I said that I dreamt of bringing the greatest players in the world to this amazing city,” he said.
“Players who shared the ambition I had when I joined LA Galaxy to help grow football in the USA and to build a legacy for the next generation in this sport that we love so much.
“Today, that dream came true. I couldn’t be prouder that a player of Leo’s caliber is joining our club, but I am also delighted to welcome a good friend, an amazing person, and his beautiful family to join our Inter Miami community.
“The next phase of our adventure starts here, and I can’t wait to see Leo take to the pitch.”
Thoughts on Messi’s celebration against Atlanta United? Let us know in the comments,