In the closing minutes of the match between Inter Miami and Colorado on April 7th, a female fan sprinted onto the field, advancing towards Messi to request a photo together, which was granted. Immediately thereafter, the security team entered the field to escort the young woman out.
Witnessing this, Messi extended his arms, seemingly indicating to the staff to handle the young lady with care. According to Ole, Messi was quoted as saying, “Fine (regarding the photo request), but please run quickly.”
The female fan was subsequently escorted off the field, yet she appeared content with the shared moment with her idol. The identity of this supporter was swiftly determined to be Antonella Siegert, who also happens to share a name with Messi’s spouse and shares a particular passion for football.
On social media platforms, Antonella also shared her experience of meeting her idol. “There is no doubt anymore, this is the best day of my life. The day I accomplished everything I ever desired. I traveled a long way to get to the match,” she wrote. “I waited for the right moment and ran as fast as I could. Thanks to Messi for his humility and for helping my dream come true.”
Antonella was fortunate as the recent match marked Messi’s comeback after a prolonged period on the sidelines due to injury. Coming on in the second half, the Argentine superstar scored a goal to help his team level the score at 1-1. Ultimately, the match ended in a 2-2 draw between the two teams. With this result, Inter Miami slipped to third place in the Eastern Conference standings.
Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023, immediately sparking frenzy. In Messi’s initial matches for Inter Miami, ticket prices soared to record levels yet remained sold out. Although the impact of Messi this season has somewhat waned, stadium attendance rates remain high.