Lionel Messi reportedly ordered 35 gold customized iPhones for his Argentina teammates and staff following the country’s victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The luxury devices were said to be worth around $175,000 in total. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
The Argentina captain chose the personalized gifts as a way to celebrate the historic achievement, marking his first World Cup triumph after years of international success.
Customized Gold iPhones for the Squad
The devices were specially designed and produced by a luxury customization company, with each phone reportedly engraved with the player’s name, jersey number, and a reference to Argentina’s World Cup victory. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The phones were based on the iPhone 14 model and featured 24-carat gold elements, making them both collectible items and high-end gadgets.
A Unique Way to Celebrate the World Cup
Messi’s decision to gift gold smartphones stood out because it differed from more traditional rewards such as watches or trophies. Reports indicated that he wanted something memorable and personalized for every member of the squad and support team. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
The gesture was widely seen as a reflection of leadership and appreciation for the collective effort behind Argentina’s World Cup success.
Argentina’s Historic Victory
Argentina won the 2022 FIFA World Cup after defeating France in a dramatic final, with Messi playing a central role throughout the tournament. The victory was considered one of the defining moments of his career.
The win ended a long wait for the national team and secured Messi’s place among football’s most celebrated players.
Reaction from Fans and Media
The news of the gold iPhones quickly spread across social media, with fans reacting to both the luxury of the gifts and the symbolism behind them. Many praised Messi for recognizing not only players but also staff members involved in the campaign.
Others highlighted the uniqueness of the gesture, noting that it reflected both modern technology culture and football celebration traditions.
Luxury Tech and Football Culture
The story also drew attention to the growing trend of customized luxury technology among athletes and celebrities. High-profile figures increasingly use personalized devices as gifts or status symbols.
For many observers, the combination of sport, luxury, and personalization illustrated how modern football continues to intersect with global entertainment and lifestyle trends.