Lionel Messi, loss and the cruellest month of his career

Lionel Messi experienced a profound personal loss described as heavier than his defeat in the World Cup final, which had occurred approximately one month prior. The New York Times piece reflects on what it characterizes as the cruellest month of Messi's career, suggesting the loss was of a deeply personal nature rather than a sporting one. The article calls on the public to give Messi time and space to grieve.