Antonela Roccuzzo on Leaving Home, Family, and a LEGO ‘Museum’ with Messi

Miami, FL – For Antonela Roccuzzo, the journey alongside Lionel Messi has been one of constant change and growth. From leaving her hometown of Rosario, Argentina, at just 19 years old to follow Messi’s burgeoning football career, to navigating life in Spain, France, and now the United States, Roccuzzo has embraced a life defined by relocation and adaptation. In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar Mexico, she reflected on the challenges and rewards of this path, emphasizing the importance of family and finding strength in new communities.

“It was difficult when I moved to Spain because at that time my family and my friends were my nest, where I felt protected,” Roccuzzo shared. “But that helped me a lot to grow.” The move, she explained, wasn’t simply a logistical shift, but a catalyst for personal development, forcing her to step outside her comfort zone and cultivate resilience.

The decision to leave Rosario was a pivotal moment, one that shaped not only her individual journey but also the foundation of a family. Alongside Messi, Roccuzzo has built a life centered around their three sons: Thiago, 13, Mateo, 11, and Ciro, 8. The arrival of her children, she says, fundamentally altered her perspective. “What changed me the most as a woman was becoming a mother. Because from that moment on, my children became my priority,” Roccuzzo stated.

Despite the geographical distance from her roots in Argentina, Roccuzzo maintains a strong connection to her heritage. “I always carried my family and my customs in my heart, in every different place I’ve lived. Even the television we watch at home is Argentinian, wherever we go,” she noted, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural ties even amidst constant movement. This dedication to family extends beyond just maintaining traditions; it’s about creating a sense of belonging wherever they land.

A LEGO Haven in Miami

Beyond the demands of supporting a global football icon and raising a family, Roccuzzo has also cultivated personal passions. One such hobby, building with LEGOs, has develop into a shared activity with her sons and has even led to the creation of a dedicated space within their Miami home. “We have something like a museum where we put all our LEGO creations,” she revealed, describing a playful collection built over time.

When asked about her favorite creation, Roccuzzo enthusiastically responded, “The Hogwarts castle! It’s gigantic and I love it.” This playful pursuit offers a glimpse into the family’s dynamic and the importance of shared experiences. It’s a testament to their ability to create a sense of normalcy and fun amidst a life often lived in the public eye.

Roccuzzo also spoke about finding joy in her current stage of life, appreciating the growing independence of her children and rediscovering a focus on her own well-being. “I’m really enjoying this stage where my children are not so little because then I am valuing myself in a different way, also putting myself in the center. This is something new and I will live it little by little,” she explained.

Looking ahead, Roccuzzo expressed a desire to travel and explore more of the United States and neighboring countries. “I would love to go to Mexico. I don’t know if there will be an opportunity to go as the World Cup for Argentina progresses. We’ll observe, but I would love to go,” she said, referencing the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Argentina’s World Cup Journey and Family Support

The Argentinian national team is slated to compete in Group J of the tournament, beginning their campaign against Algeria on June 16th at the Kansas City Stadium at 10:00 PM Argentina time (UTC-3). They will then face Austria on June 22nd at 2:00 PM at the Dallas Stadium, and conclude the group stage against Jordan on June 27th at 11:00 PM, also in Dallas. The family’s support will undoubtedly be a key factor as Messi and the team pursue another international title.

When asked about the essence of happiness, Roccuzzo offered a simple yet profound answer: “Sharing with my loved ones and being surrounded by people I love and who love me back, with genuine love and affection. Being surrounded by people who care for and respect me.” She also confessed a fondness for pasta as her favorite food, and shared that her children curate the family’s music playlist, currently dominated by the songs of Rosalía.

Recently, a photo of Thiago Roccuzzo, shared by Antonela on her Instagram account, went viral among fans of Lionel Messi. The image captured the 13-year-old on the bench during an Inter Miami match, showcasing his growth and the family’s continued presence in supporting Messi’s career. It’s a visual reminder of the evolving dynamics within the Messi-Roccuzzo family and their shared journey.

As the Messi family settles into life in Miami, Antonela Roccuzzo continues to balance her roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and partner, all while maintaining a strong connection to her roots and embracing new experiences. The family’s next confirmed commitment is supporting Lionel as he prepares for Argentina’s World Cup campaign, a moment that will undoubtedly bring them even closer together.

What are your thoughts on Antonela Roccuzzo’s journey? Share your comments below and let us know what you find most inspiring about her story.