Del Potro, stunned by Messi's Argentina exit: «It blindsided us all» | OneFootball

Juan Martín Del Potro dedicated a few words to Lionel Messi after he announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. The former tennis player said that the Rosario-born star’s performance in the last World Cup “elevates him even more,” knowing the personal situation he was going through because of his father’s serious illness, who ultimately died weeks later.

“From now on, every day we see him on the pitch, it’s time to thank him for everything he has given. As Argentinians, we have to be grateful to have Messi with us,” Del Potro said in an interview with ESPN.

He also said he was surprised by the news: “It’s shocking news, but these are the kinds of news and days that have to come. Maybe it catches all of us off guard.”

“He just scored four goals, he looks in good shape and eager to keep playing. And then suddenly this message leaves everyone in shock,” said the Tandil native.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.