In a recent interview for his biography by Guillem Balagu, Lionel Messi revealed the struggles he faced as a child on his path to success. At the age of 11, it was discovered that he had a growth hormone deficiency, leading to a daily routine of injecting needles into his legs for three years. This challenging experience was a part of his journey that ultimately led him to greatness in the world of football.

The legendary seven-time Ballon d’Or winner shared that he was always the smallest on the pitch and at school due to his Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD). In an interview with Salvadoran sports newspaper El Grafico, Lionel Messi revealed how he injected himself with growth hormones every night without any worries or pain. Messi, now a star player for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), was diagnosed with GHD at the young age of 11. GHD is a condition caused by a deficiency in growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland.