Soccer Star Lionel Messi Weds Childhood Sweetheart In An Extravagant Affair

Celebrity

Soccer Star Lionel Messi Weds Childhood Sweetheart In An Extravagant Affair

It's not everyday that we get a sneak peek into how the rich and famous celebrate special occasions such as weddings, but on the rare chance that we do, it always exceeds our expectations. Just when you thought you've seen the most lavish celebrity wedding, another comes along and blows everyone else out of the water.

This past weekend one of the world's best and third highest paid athletes, Lionel Messi and his longtime partner, Antonella Roccuzzo, returned to their hometown of Rosario, Argentina to tie the knot in what has been described as the "wedding of the century."

30-year-old Messi and his 29-year-old bride's love story has been more than 20 years in the making. The pair met as children and have been inseparable since.

The childhood sweethearts officially started dating in 2008 and share two sons, Thiago, 4 and Mateo, 2.

The Argentinian couple exchanged their vows and said "I do" at the luxurious City Centre Rosario in front of 250 guests including Messi's current and former teammates Neymar, Eto'o, Gerard Pique and his partner Shakira.

Getty
Splash News

The public wasn't allowed access to the venue and a no-cellphone policy was in effect, but thanks to some sneaky individuals and the bride's social media account, some photos and videos from the extravagant affair has leaked online.

Click on the next page to ooh and aah over photos of the stunning details, delicious menu and star-studded reception.

The happy couple rented out the entire City Center complex and hired about 450 police officers for security.

The glamorous celebration started with a ceremony that was aired on big screens outside of the venue so fans of the couple can be witnesses to the special moment. Then the public were given a chance to catch a glimpse of the newlyweds as they made their way to the reception.

Roccuzzo's gorgeous dress was made by Madrid-based designer, Rosa Clara, and was reportedly flown in by a private jet.

PA Images/ Martin Zabala/Xinhua News Agency

After their red carpet debut as Mr and Mrs, the happy couple joined by family and friends made their way to the reception where they spent the night partying under giant chandeliers, feasting and reveling over a fancy eats including a Charcuterie and Sushi station.

The posh five-star venue that hosted the much-talked about bash was lavishly decorated with lots of flowers and beautiful lighting.

Earlier in the night, the couple's children were also part of the festivities.

Getty Images

The party was kicked off with the pair's first dance during which they were serenaded by  Argentinian singer-songwriter Abel Pintos. International and popstar Shakira also performed later in the night.

"ªGracias a Antonella y Leo y a la gente de Rosario por su hospitalidad! Shak "¬

A post shared by Shakira (@shakira) on

As for wedding favors, guests were sent home with a curated gift box filled with the soccer star's own wine, gourmet dulce de leche and other goodies.

Splash News

What's next for the newly married couple? Messi, Roccuzzo and their children are reportedly planning a honeymoon in the Caribbean, but they'll have to make stop in Barcelona where the athlete is expected to sign his new contract.

We wish them all the best!

Blair isn't a bestselling author, but she has a knack for beautiful prose. When she isn't writing for Shared, she enjoys listening to podcasts.