Sotheby’s has announced the listing of six game-worn jerseys of Lionel Messi from the 2022 World Cup for auction, with expectations of bringing in $10 million. The jerseys are size medium and were worn by Messi during two of Argentina’s group stage matches, the Round of 16, quarterfinal, semifinal, and championship rounds.
Messi’s Argentina squad suffered a disappointing defeat against Saudi Arabia in their first match but went on to win their next six games, securing the nation’s first World Cup title since 1986. Messi scored a total of seven goals during these matches, solidifying his legacy as the fourth-leading scorer in the tournament’s history.
The auction for Messi’s jerseys is set to begin later this month and is expected to attract collectors and fans alike. These jerseys are being characterized as artifacts of Messi’s legacy and symbolize the culmination of a career filled with hard work and an undying passion for the sport.
Following his World Cup journey, Messi joined Inter Miami and has significantly increased attention to Major League Soccer (MLS). Ticket prices for Inter Miami’s home and away games have seen a substantial rise, reflecting Messi’s influence on the league. This move has brought more attention to MLS and has helped boost its popularity in North America.
In addition to his MLS successes, Messi was also awarded FIFA’s Ballon d’Or for the eighth time in 2022. This achievement solidified his impact and influence on the world of football as one of the greatest players of all time.