Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, continues to show that his legendary competitiveness isn’t limited to the pitch — it follows him all the way home.
In a heartfelt and funny interview with the popular YouTube channel Lo del Pollo, the Argentine superstar opened up about his playful (yet intense) battles with his children during family game nights.
Messi on Not Letting His Kids Win
When asked about his ultra-competitive nature, Messi didn’t hold back:
“I’m so competitive that I don’t even let my kids beat me at video games.”
The reporter then reminded him of a past moment that went viral — when he refused to let his kids win at UNO. Messi smiled and confirmed the story, adding how his children have grown up with the same fiery spirit:
“Yes… My kids are competitive like me. They want to win games. Ciro especially, he’s very similar to me, he doesn’t like losing.”
Messi’s laughter during the interview highlighted the loving, fun dynamic he shares with his family.
Like Father, Like Son: Ciro Messi
Messi’s youngest son, Ciro, appears to have inherited his father’s winning mentality the most. The football icon proudly noted how Ciro hates losing just as much as he does — a trait that fans find both adorable and relatable.
This isn’t the first time Messi has spoken about balancing his ultra-competitive personality with fatherhood. While he’s a fierce competitor on the field, at home he’s a devoted family man who enjoys quality time with his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three sons: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro.