Editorial photo #10968545

Messi Hong Kong Match Absence Incident

SHANGHAI, CHINA - DECEMBER 31, 2022 - Chinese fans celebrate Lionel Messi's victory for Argentina at the 2022 Qatar World Cup at the Expo Valley giant screen light show in Shanghai, China, December 31, 2022. Argentine star Lionel Messi's absence from a friendly match between Beckham's Miami International and Hong Kong on Feb 4, 2024 sparked anger among Chinese fans, who said Messi's no-show showed a lack of respect for his longtime supporters. (Photo by Costfoto/NurPhoto)