Lionel Messi at 5-foot-7 ranks among the shortest in soccer

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 19, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Jul 19, 2026

Lionel Messi at 5-foot-7 ranks among the shortest in soccer
Summary

Lionel Messi stands 5-foot-7, making him one of the shortest players in soccer, particularly noticeable during the 2026 World Cup. Facing a growth hormone deficiency at age 11, he underwent treatments to attain his current height. Despite this, Messi is still taller than Diego Maradona by two inches. He shares this height with three other Argentina players in the tournament. Emiliano Martínez, the team's goalkeeper, is the tallest at 6-foot-5.

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By the Numbers
  • Messi diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency at age 11.
  • He reached 5-foot-7 after treatment.
  • Argentina has three other players also at 5-foot-7.
  • Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is Argentina's tallest player at 6-foot-5.
Latest Updates
  • 5:00 PMYahoo SportsHow tall is Lionel Messi? Argentina star's height, growth hormone treatment
What they're saying
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Lionel Messi might be one of the shortest players on the field, but that hasn't stopped him from becoming the soccer G.O.A.T.

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