One of the greatest soccer players of all time, Lionel Messi was sentenced 21 months in jail (though he might not actually serve) for tax fraud. He is looked up to and admired by so many fans and this truly tarnished his reputation and character.
To avoid paying taxes on about 4+ millions euros, he ended up paying about 5 million euros (unpaid taxes plus interest). From financially he may have not lost anything since it was due anyway, but he lost what is more important; his dignity, his reputation and his public persona which should be considered far more valuable.
Though Lionel’s father, Leo Messi, was the one who managed his finance, the court doesn’t believe Lionel Messi was unaware of his father’s fraud. Whether it is true or not, his image has been tarnished… at least by me.
I am still impressed by his talent and skill, but I am sadden by what happened.
Just a good reminder for me as there are people who “look up to me” and respect me. I pray that I would impress them with how much I love God and serve Him faithfully than my talent, money (which I don’t have enough to impress, LOL), degree or title.