In addition to his illustrious domestic career, the international journey of Lionel Messi reads like a captivating fairy tale. From enduring multiple heartbreaks in finals to finally clinching the coveted World Cup title, his path has been nothing short of extraordinary. But in order to even begin his national career, La Pulga was forced to relinquish a brand, whose market saw a disruption of over $4 billion due to a single word from none other than Cristiano Ronaldo!

Imagine a moment where a comment from CR7 could cause a multi-billion-dollar tumble. While that might sound like the stuff of legend, it did indeed happen. However, long before the Portuguese superstar sent shockwaves, a young Messi faced a similar dilemma back in 2005.

Lionel Messi was forced to renounce a vice to answer Argentina’s call-up

Back when Messi made everyone notice his soccer prowess, he quickly received a call-up from the Argentinian national team in 2005. Although the Spanish team made multiple tempting offers to the young man from Rosario, he consistently declined them because his heart was set on representing the Albiceleste. But in order to start wearing the South American country’s shirt, he had to forgo a very peculiar habit; drinking Coca-Cola.

This was revealed by, Fabián Soldini, the man who brought him to Barcelona and accompanied him until his debut. He once suggested Messi give up on the soft drink until the national team calls. And that’s what happened. As stated by TN, Messi made a commitment, though it didn’t transpire as Soldini anticipated. “I assumed he would quit it quickly; he was just fifteen years old, but he refrained from consuming it for an extended period,” Soldini said.

Despite this sacrifice, Soldini clarified that the Albiceleste had not considered Messi and that he had been growing increasingly frustrated. He had to wait until 2004 to make his debut against Paraguay and until 2005 to play against Hungary with the senior team. Nevertheless, it seems his renouncement paid him well.

READ MORE: ‘Absolute Leader’ Lionel Messi Ditches Son, Who Celebrated Real Madrid’s Goal, for Argentina Despite 8th Birthday Celebrations

Moreover, it was quite the unheard tale of Messi. Interestingly, it is the same brand that endured a loss of over $4 billion. Only because of a single word Ronaldo once said.

One word from Cristiano Ronaldo led to a billion-dollar loss!

In 2021, during the EURO 2020 press conference before Portugal’s match against Hungary, Ronaldo addressed the presence of carbonated beverages arranged in front of his seat. The 36-year-old promptly moved them aside and opted for a bottle of water, exclaiming, “Agua.” CR7 advocated for water as a healthier choice, and this action had a significant impact, resulting in a $4 billion decrease in the brand’s market value.

Responding to the initial comments, Coca-Cola expressed its respect for everyone’s right to choose their preferred beverages. They acknowledged the diversity of people’s tastes and needs. Undoubtedly, it was a remarkable gesture from the former Real Madrid player. Notably, it underscores his commitment to his dietary and health principles.

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What are your thoughts on Ronaldo’s words against Coca-Cola? Also, let us know about Messi’s unheard tale in the comments.