Stats Show Babies Named After Messi Increased by 700% in Argentina

• Argentina captain Lionel Messi keeps hitting the target even without kicking the ball
• His role in his country's third World Cup title has been recognised in a profound way
• In 2014, his hometown allegedly banned parents from naming children after the star

Lionel Messi keeps raking in accolades after he played a starring role in Argentina's World Cup charge.

The veteran ensured the only missing title in his Hollywood-esque trophy cabinet was duly added, when he inspired La Albiceleste to their first World Cup success since 1986.

The 35-year-old contributed with seven goals and three assists while scooping the Golden Ball award, to cement his status as arguably the greatest player in the history of football.

Several weeks after dethroning France as world champions, Messi continues to benefit from Argentina's success in Qatar.

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He witnessed meteoric growth across his social media handles, while also earning the enviable accolade of the most-liked photo in Instagram history.

But the latest feat, while not having a direct role, is worth noting.

According to Front Office Sports, since Argentina won the World Cup, babies named Lionel and Lionela have increased by 700% in Messi's home province of Santa Fe.

One in every 70 babies born in the region was named after Messi in December, Rosario newspaper Diario La Capital reports.

Messi receives guard of honour

Messi reported back to Paris Saint-Germain having concluded his celebrations, after winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina.

His return to training prompted a hero's welcome from his teammates and support staff at the French titans.

In a video shared on social media, seen by Sports Brief, the former Barcelona talisman walked through rows of players and staff in a gesture befitting a champion.

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Messi pockets a massive sum

Sports Brief earlier reported that Messi's recent World Cup triumph seems to have come with a lot of income, with reports suggesting he is earning millions from Instagram since the win in Qatar.

Messi played an influential role in Argentina's journey to glory, as he helped the South Americans win the global football showpiece for the first time since 1986.

Daily Mail now claims that the former Barca star is cashing in on his World Cup success in a big way through the social media platform.