Hardrock
Sports Betting
News, Blog and GuidesLionel Messi has revealed the origin of his Marvel superhero celebrations, including Black Panther, Thor and Spiderman.
Corina Gonzálezgo_corinaCalum RocheEnglish_ASUpdate: Aug 18th, 2023 07:02 EDT
HECTOR VIVASAFP
As part of the preparations for the 2023 Leagues Cup final against Nashville SC – don’t you dare miss it – Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF addressed the media in his first press conference, shedding light on his decision to join the Florida-based team, the warm reception he has received, and the inspiration behind his viral superhero celebrations from the Marvel universe, which started with one of Darth Vader.
Spiderman, Thor and more from superstar Messi
During the match against Atlanta United, Messi surprised everyone with an unconventional celebration after scoring a goal. He recreated Thor’s iconic hammer-summoning gesture, a moment that quickly spread across social media and became viral.
In the subsequent game against Orlando City, the Argentine superstar celebrated a goal by referencing Black Panther and performing the famous ‘Wakanda Forever’ salute.
Messi going through the Marvel Universe 🔥 pic.twitter.com/IxYgm9Dgp3
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 12, 2023
Later, in the match against Charlotte FC, Messi scored the fourth goal that secured Inter Miami’s victory and celebrated by mimicking Spider-Man’s iconic web-shooting gesture.
Speculation among some of Inter Miami’s fans revolved around a potential connection between Messi’s celebrations and the partnership between Adidas and Marvel. However, the former PSG player clarified the true reason behind his celebratory actions.
Messi’s kids and his Marvel celebrations
In an interview with the Miami Herald, Messi shared the backstory behind his Marvel superhero-themed goal celebrations.
“With my three kids still on vacation and not yet back to school, we’ve been watching Marvel superhero movies every night. The idea came from them, and they asked me that every time I play a match and score a goal, I should do a Marvel superhero celebration,” the Argentine revealed.
“That’s how it all started, and we’ve kept up with that tradition. Every time we’d watch a new movie, we’d practice a goal celebration. But I only do them for home games, when the kids are here, close to me, so we can share those moments.
