Lionel Messi: Celebrating 37 Years of Football Greatness

Argentina and Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, celebrates his 37th birthday on Monday. To mark the occasion, The Athletic has compiled an impressive list of 37 fascinating facts, stats, and trivia about the legendary player. Starting with his remarkable goal-scoring record, Messi has notched a staggering 672 goals for Barcelona alone, surpassing the previous record held by Pele for goals scored for a single club. His overall career tally stands at 837 goals, with an impressive breakdown by body parts including left foot, right foot, head, chest, hip, and even hand. One of his notable goals includes his very own 'Hand of God' moment against Espanyol in June 2007. Over the years, Messi has set numerous records and achieved remarkable feats in the world of football. He scored a record-breaking 91 goals in 2012, won the Ballon d'Or a record eight times, and is the only player to win the Golden Ball at the World Cup twice. Additionally, Messi has won 39 trophies in his club career, displaying his exceptional talent and leadership on the field. Messi's international career with Argentina has also been illustrious, with 108 goals to his name, making him one of just three players to reach a century of international goals. His performances at the 2022 World Cup, where he scored in every round, exemplify his skill and consistency at the highest level of competition. Moreover, Messi's versatility and scoring prowess are highlighted by his impressive records in various aspects of the game. He has scored 57 hat-tricks in his career, including eight in the Champions League alone. His goal-scoring exploits against different countries and clubs showcase his ability to perform on the global stage consistently. Off the field, Messi's influence extends to social media, where he holds the record for the most-liked Instagram post ever, following his celebratory photo after winning the 2022 World Cup. His impact transcends borders, with fans around the world admiring his talent and dedication to the sport. As Messi enters another year of his illustrious career, fans and football enthusiasts alike continue to marvel at his achievements and look forward to witnessing more magical moments from the Argentine maestro on the football pitch.