Lionel Messi is probably the most popular footballer in the world, if not the most popular athlete in the world. Heck, he might even be the most popular person in the world.
And so, when Messi was injured this weekend, tearing a knee ligament, he received an outpouring of support from his legions of fans.
Messi is expected to be out for about 7-8 weeks, which is a long time for a high-level athlete to go without being active. He'll probably get bored and antsy, so having the support of his fans is huge.
Messi knows that, and has given that support right back, with a heartfelt message appearing on his official Facebook page.
Muchas gracias a todos por los mensajes de apoyo. Para cualquiera que ama el fútbol, lo más difícil es no poder jugar....Posted by Leo Messi on Monday, 28 September 2015
Get well soon, Lionel Messi. The world of soccer needs you.
Contact The18 Staff Writer Sam Klomhaus at Klomhaus@The18.com or follow him on Twitter @SamKlomhaus