New York [US], June 5 : Maxi Rodriguez hailed football icon Lionel Messi's relentless drive and mentality, saying the Argentina captain is still driven by an unshakable hunger for success and a desire to keep making history.
He said Messi's focus remains solely on representing his country and winning another World Cup, rather than personal milestones or records.
Rodriguez believes that a competitive mindset has defined Messi's career and is the reason he continues to perform at the highest level, allowing fans to enjoy seeing him lead Argentina once again in the iconic No. 10 shirt.
"Messi is fuelled by his hunger for glory and his desire to make history again. He keeps going, nothing can stop him. He plays for the pride of representing his country: nothing else crosses his mind, not even breaking records. He wants to be crowned a world champion again. He's putting everything on the line once more because that hunger is part of who he is. Without that mindset and drive, he wouldn't have achieved everything that he has. That's why we're still able to enjoy another World Cup with him in Argentina's iconic No. 10 shirt," Rodriguez said as per the FIFA website.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, having conquered supremacy at individual/team level at every club, every country he has been to for his football, finally conquered the international football's biggest prize in 2022 at Qatar, making it the crown jewel of his legacy.
Despite having conquered it all, Messi is all set for his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, getting to play as a defending world champion for the first time in his career.
Argentina will begin their World Cup campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, followed by group matches against Austria and Jordan later in the tournament.
Messi has also been awarded the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, becoming the first individual footballer to receive the prestigious honour. The Princess of Asturias Award recognises individuals and institutions for outstanding achievements in fields including arts, literature, social sciences, scientific and technical research, international cooperation, and sport.
Messi won the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, along with the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles, and an Olympic gold medal in Beijing. At the club level, Messi has claimed 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies with FC Barcelona, as well as the 2025 MLS Cup, the 2024 Supporters' Shield, and the 2023 Leagues Cup with Inter Miami CF.