Rugby Star Urdapilleta Anguishes Over Messi's Looming Retirement
Rugby player Benjamín Urdapilleta shared his immense admiration for footballer Lionel Messi on RMC's 'Bartoli Time'. The Argentine rugby player, who recently broke the Top 14 points record, is already anxious about his idol's international retirement.
Urdapilleta, like much of his country, is a huge Lionel Messi fan. The new professional era record holder for points scored in the French Championship (2,619) spoke about his dread concerning 'La Pulga' (Messi) stepping away from the Albiceleste.
"I'm going to fall into depression," the Perpignan fly-half confessed on RMC's 'Bartoli Time'. Urdapilleta, now 40, entered Top 14 legend during his team's match against Racing 92 on Saturday, which ended in a 55-25 defeat.
'He's a humble guy, even though he could be flashy all the time'
Urdapilleta finds it hard to comprehend: "Watching Argentina play without Messi is sad. It's not the same anymore. It's incredible." He explained the source of his admiration for the footballer.
"He's a fabulous guy in every way: as a player, as a person with his family... Off the field, he's a humble guy, even though he could always show off. But he always keeps a low profile, stays quiet. He's an example," Urdapilleta stated respectfully.
Next Tuesday at El Monumental in Buenos Aires, Lionel Messi will play his final match for the Argentine national team against Benin. At 39 years old and for his 208th and last cap, the legend will conclude a monumental international career, notably marked by a World Cup victory and two Copa America titles.
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