Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine footballer, has always been known for his humility both on and off the pitch. While millions of fans and pundits praise his extraordinary talent, Messi’s greatest supporter has always been someone far closer to home — his mother.

In a rare moment of reflection, Messi recently opened up about how his mother, Celia, has always seen him through a lens of unconditional love. “My mother always sees me as the best,” Messi shared with a smile. “In her eyes, I never play a bad game. She believes I always perform well, and if something goes wrong, it’s never my fault… like all mothers.”

This simple statement encapsulates something many of us can relate to: the unshakable belief parents often have in their children, regardless of their circumstances or challenges. In Messi’s case, his mother’s unwavering support has been a constant source of strength throughout his illustrious career.

Even though Messi has faced immense pressure on the football field, playing for top clubs like Barcelona, PSG, and Argentina, he has always had a rock-solid foundation at home — a mother who believes in him wholeheartedly, whether he’s scoring goals or missing them.

It’s easy to assume that someone of Messi’s stature, who has achieved almost everything there is to achieve in football, might not rely on such personal sources of motivation. However, his candid admission highlights the profound impact family can have on an individual’s sense of self-worth. Messi’s mother, like so many others, has been his number one fan, lifting him up when the world saw mistakes and celebrating his victories as if they were her own.

For Messi, this sense of security has been essential in navigating the highs and lows of a professional career. From early struggles to global success, his mother’s belief in him has been a stabilizing force — a reminder that beyond the trophies and accolades, he will always be her son, worthy of love and admiration, no matter what.

This sentiment is one that resonates with many, especially those who know the comfort of a mother’s support in times of uncertainty. Messi’s words serve as a testament to the power of family, showing that sometimes, the greatest champions aren’t necessarily the ones in the spotlight but those who stand by us quietly, believing in us when we can’t always believe in ourselves.

As Messi continues his journey on the football field, he remains grounded by the love and faith of those who have always seen him as more than just a player. And in his case, that includes a mother who will forever believe in him — the best footballer in the world, in her eyes.