Messi's girlfriend gives birth to son Thiago

November 03, 2012 12:20 IST

World Player of the Year Lionel Messi has become a father for the first time following the birth of his son Thiago on Friday.

"Leo Messi is a father," his club Barcelona said in a brief statement on their website.

Lionel Messi "This Friday afternoon Antonella Rocuzzo, the Argentine star's girlfriend, gave birth to Thiago Messi, the couple's first son."

Messi, 25, added on his Facebook page: "Today I am the happiest man in the world, my son has been born."

"I thank God for this gift. Thanks to my family for the support. A hug for everyone."

All being well, forward Messi should still be available for Saturday's La Liga match at home to Celta Vigo, Barca coach Tito Vilanova said earlier on Friday.

Photograph: David Ramos/Getty Images

Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

Source:

© Copyright 2025 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.