A Nation Comes Together for Messi's 39th Birthday
Across Argentina, streets filled with fans chanting "Happy Birthday" as the clock struck 10 a.m. local time, a coordinated moment that was echoed again at 10 p.m., thanks to a campaign launched by the national broadcaster Telefé.
President Javier Milei joined the chorus online, posting a video of himself singing the tribute and extending his congratulations to the footballer, who has just been crowned the all‑time leading scorer in World Cup history.
Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni also took the opportunity to wish Messi a happy birthday, praising the player’s enduring impact on the national team and the sport.
Messi’s milestone came after he netted five goals across two World Cup matches, a feat that not only solidified his record but also sparked a wave of admiration from supporters and officials alike.
The synchronized singing, organized by Telefé, highlighted the deep cultural connection between the sport and everyday life in Argentina, turning a simple birthday wish into a nationwide event that resonated far beyond the stadiums.
In Buenos Aires, the capital, crowds gathered in plazas, while Argentine communities abroad, such as those in Kansas City, Missouri, also organized their own renditions of the birthday anthem, underscoring the global reach of the celebration.