Aoba Tanaka 
In a historic auction at Sotheby’s in New York, six of Lionel Messi’s iconic jerseys worn during the 2022 World Cup found new homes, collectively commanding a jaw-dropping sum of $7.8 million (£6.1 million). The Argentine maestro, who captained his team to victory against France in a thrilling final decided by penalties, has once again left an indelible mark, not only on the football pitch but also in the realm of sports memorabilia.
The six jerseys up for auction were from significant moments in Argentina’s triumphant journey, spanning the first half of the final, the semi-final, quarter-final, last-16 tie, and two intense group stage encounters. Messi’s unparalleled achievement of scoring in every stage of the tournament solidifies these jerseys as prized artifacts in football history.
Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ jersey holds the current record for a game-worn football shirt, having sold for £7.1 million in 2022. While Messi’s jerseys may not have surpassed that record, the collective value underscores the immense demand for memorabilia associated with the legendary footballer.
As an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi’s feats extend beyond the pitch. He made history in the World Cup by becoming the first player to score in the group stage, last 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final of a single tournament, showcasing his unparalleled prowess.
Notably, only two of the three shirts Messi wore during the group stage will be part of the auction, as Heart of Midlothian’s Australia international Cammy Devlin exchanged shirts with the former Barcelona forward during the tournament.
In a gesture that adds depth to the monumental auction, Sotheby’s announced that a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Unicas Project. Led by Sant Joan de Deu Barcelona Children’s Hospital, with the support of the Leo Messi Foundation, this initiative aims to address the needs of children suffering from rare diseases.
The auction not only signifies the monetary value associated with Messi’s legacy but also contributes to a noble cause, making it a momentous event in the world of sports memorabilia. Stay tuned for more updates on the impact of this historic auction.
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