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New Delhi: Lionel Messi revealed why he was reduced to tears on the pitch after scoring his first goal in his historic hat-trick for Argentina in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Algeria on Wednesday. Messi was seen crying after netting his first goal in the match in the 17th minute to put Argentina in the lead.

Messi went on to score two more times in the game to finish with a sublime hat-trick. Despite having turned 38 and not playing in one of the top five leagues, Messi once again proved why he continued to remain Argentina’s talisman with his magical display against Algeria.

However, many were left surprised and curious when Messi broke down in tears after scoring his first goal of the game. He curled home a brilliant effort to give Argentina the lead and was seen wiping off tears with his shirt after celebrating with his teammates. The Argentina captain later revealed why he broke down on the pitch.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” said Messi.

“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it,” he added.

It was a milestone hat-trick for the Argentine superstar as it helped him equal former Germany striker Miroslav Klose’s all-time record for the most goals in FIFA World Cup history. Messi has now scored 16 goals in 27 matches for Argentina, while Klose scored as many in 24 for Germany.

Messi, who inspired Argentina to a memorable title triumph in the last edition, also became the first player to feature in a record sixth FIFA World Cup. His hat-trick against Algeria on Wednesday was his first in the tournament since his FIFA World Cup debut in 2006.

Messi’s hat-trick helped Argentina thrash Alegria 3-0 to kick off their World Cup defence in style at the Kansas City Stadium. The little maestro was substituted in the 80th minute to a standing ovation from the crowd and will be hoping to continue his fine form when he returns to lead Argentina in their next game against Austria on Monday, June 22.