Despite the tremendous fame and achievements of Lionel Messi, he has consistently remained grounded and true to his origins. His humility has earned him the reputation of being relatable and connected to ordinary people, which has endeared him to fans worldwide despite his extraordinary talent.
As a renowned soccer maestro and global superstar, Lionel Messi is accustomed to being in the public eye. His exceptional career and record-breaking feats have made him a household name, leading to his recognition wherever he goes.
However, there are moments when Messi, known for his down-to-earth nature, seeks a sense of normalcy. One such occasion took place at a grocery store, where he requested the car keys from his wife, Antonella Roccuzzo after people started to recognize him.
After concluding his Paris Saint-Germain contract, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner flew to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to join Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer. Miami businessmen Jorge and José Mas, along with David Beckham, co-own the team.
Checkout chaos: Fans recognize Lionel Messi and request selfies
Messi was sighted actively seeking a taste of ordinary life in Miami. Adjusting to his new life in the United States, he took his family to a local Publix supermarket in Miami for grocery shopping on a Thursday night, which delighted his long-time supporters and newfound fans in America.
🚨 LIONEL MESSI SHOPPING AT PUBLIX HIGHLIGHTS, ALL TOUCHES 🚨 pic.twitter.com/1VYOCnpJrB
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) July 14, 2023
Initially, the Messi family enjoyed their shopping experience without any issues. However, as they reached the checkout counter, fans began to recognize the global superstar and approached him for selfies. To avoid the growing crowd, Antonella handed the car keys to Messi, and together with their three sons, they swiftly made their way to their vehicle.
In the absence of any security, onlookers casually observed the 35-year-old Messi, accompanied by his wife Antonella and their three sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro, as they actively selected various cereals from the shelves.
Fans taking selfies with Lionel Messi at Publix in Miami. pic.twitter.com/KxXgvVAVOK
— Mundo Albiceleste ⭐🌟⭐🇦🇷 (@MundoAlbicelest) July 14, 2023
Supporters of the former Barcelona forward found this situation charming, as Messi rarely has the opportunity to move freely in cities like Barcelona, Paris, and many parts of the world. A highlight reel of Messi’s grocery shopping adventure even circulated.
To Messi’s first foray into Miami life, the public has reacted with enthusiasm as one said, “Messi asking Antonella for the car keys after people started to recognise him at the grocery store is the funniest thing I’ve seen all day.”
Messi asking Antonela for the car keys after people started to recognize him at the grocery store is the funniest thing I’ve seen all day 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/0i9daVXLF2
— R (@Lionel30i) July 14, 2023
When Inter Miami formally introduces Messi to the club, along with fellow former Barcelona star Sergio Busquets, fans expect to give him an enthusiastic reception reminiscent of a rock star. The upcoming event, called “The Unveil,” will grant free entry to season ticket holders.