Topics: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Argentina, FIFA World Cup
The Argentine ace's celebratory post was liked by millions, making it one of Instagram's most historic moments.

Lionel Messi is a man for the records book!

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner captained Argentina to FIFA World Cup glory yesterday, with the 35-year-old icon scoring twice in the thrilling victory over France in the final.

Penalties were needed to separate these two nations after the match ended in a 3-3 draw after extra time, with the South Americans converting all four of their attempts while Les Blues missed twice.

And just like that, the one trophy that had alluded La Pulga his entire career was now officially in his hands. The Barcelona legend broke several records throughout the campaign but there was one more for him to shatter after he lifted the coveted title.

After the celebrations calmed down, Leo took to social media and made history once again. The Albiceleste captain posted a number of pictures from the game, the first being one of himself hoisting up the trophy, with a heartwarming caption confessing his gratitude for the team, the fans, and his family.

And within minutes, this post began garnering traction like no other. In 10 minutes, it had already received 10 million likes, and soon after, it became the most-liked post on Instagram by a sportsperson in the social media platform's history.

This record was previously held by Cristiano Ronaldo (41.9 million likes) with that unforgettable Louis Vuitton advert featuring both him and Leo playing chess just before the tournament kicked off.

"WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it......" Messi wrote.

"Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do.

"The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream'

Over 46 million people reacted to that post at the time of this article, meaning that it could soon overtake the record of most-liked post on Instagram overall, which currently stands at 56.2 million.


Nonetheless, while this proves the love and admiration Leo enjoys in the beautiful game, what matters most to the player is yesterday's victory. Messi's final FIFA World Cup ever ended in him lifting the trophy as Argentina ended their 36-year-old wait for this silverware.

The champions held an open-top bus parade in Qatar as there were thousands of fans at the host nation. However, all eyes are on the title celebrations back home as Messi and Co. prepare for a hero's welcome in Buenos Aires.