Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer superstar, has long been rumored to have autism. While Messi has never publicly disclosed a diagnosis, there are several indicators that suggest he may be on the autism spectrum.
First and foremost, Messi has displayed several traits commonly associated with autism. He has been described as socially awkward and introverted, preferring to keep to himself and avoid large crowds. He also has a tendency to become fixated on certain subjects, often obsessively watching soccer games or practicing his skills on the field.
In an article on the New York Times, Gerald Pique who played with him in Barcelona said that the team though Lionel Messi was mute when he first joined.
Why?
He would spend most of his time just sitting in the dressing room and saying nothing to anybody.
Additionally, Messi has struggled with communication and social interaction. He has been known to avoid eye contact and has difficulty expressing his thoughts and emotions, often relying on nonverbal cues to communicate. These are all common traits of autism.
Furthermore, Messi has faced challenges in his personal and professional life that may be related to his potential autism diagnosis. He has struggled with anxiety and has been known to have meltdowns when faced with overwhelming situations. These challenges have sometimes affected his performance on the soccer field, leading to criticism and scrutiny from fans and media.
Despite these challenges, Messi has managed to become one of the greatest soccer players of all time. He has won numerous awards and accolades, including six Ballon d’Or awards and eight La Liga titles. He has also broken numerous records, including the most goals scored in a calendar year and the most goals scored in a single season in Europe’s top five leagues.
It is important to note that a diagnosis of autism does not diminish Messi’s incredible talent and achievements. Many individuals with autism go on to lead successful and fulfilling lives, and Messi is a testament to this.
In conclusion, while it is unclear if Lionel Messi has officially been diagnosed with autism, there are several indications that suggest he may be on the autism spectrum. Regardless, he remains a shining example of what individuals with autism are capable of achieving.