Express reporter Zak Garner-Purkis, watching from the north side of the New York/New Jersey stadium, observed Lionel Messi's every move after Argentina's extra-time World Cup Final defeat by Spain. The 39-year-old star was unable to hold back tears as he looked out at the Argentine fans, but the true reason for his emotional breakdown was his profound isolation.
Messi Alone After Defeat
When the game ended, Messi ripped off his boots and sat on the pitch for an extended period, legs splayed out. As he finally stood, he remained alone, staring into the distance, puffing out his cheeks. Garner-Purkis noted, 'I couldn’t take my eyes off the great man because he looked so incredibly lonely.'
Despite being surrounded by teammates, Messi stood separate from the squad. 'There were close to a hundred thousand people in the stadium bowl, but not one person - not even his teammates - seemed able to approach or speak to him,' the reporter wrote.
Unable to Bear the Trophy Ceremony
When Sergio Ramos walked over with the trophy, Messi pressed his hands to his knees and bowed his head, unable to watch. During the medal ceremony, he stood entirely alone. The only player he spoke to in the aftermath was Rodrigo De Paul.
When a disturbance broke out near the Argentina players' families, Messi trudged half-heartedly at the back of the pack. As they returned, he remained silently ahead, with De Paul the only player within two yards.
The Moment of Tears
Garner-Purkis observed that Messi had been holding in his emotions, likely to avoid breaking down too soon. When he finally approached the Argentina fans and burst into tears, he was still alone, his iconic number 10 shirt standing two yards off to the side of the group. 'This, he must feel, is truly the end for him and Argentina,' the reporter concluded.
The scene highlighted the isolating life of a living icon, with most teammates appearing scared to get too close, even as Messi desperately needed comfort.
