MIAMI( The COW News Digital ) Football icon Lionel Messi is no stranger to fan adoration, but a 98-year-old woman has taken admiration to a whole new level by proposing marriage to the Argentine legend during a FIFA Club World Cup match.
The viral moment unfolded just before Inter Miami’s final group-stage clash against Brazilian club Palmeiras. As Messi was warming up, he noticed a handmade sign in the crowd that read, “Messi, will you marry me?”
The banner wasn’t just any fan gesture—it came from none other than Pauline “Gangster Granny” Kana, a 98-year-old internet sensation known for her bold spirit and hilarious antics. Dressed in a pink jersey with her signature oversized sunglasses, she waved the sign with infectious enthusiasm that instantly caught the attention of spectators and Messi himself.
Messi, upon spotting the banner, smiled warmly and waved at Pauline, gently declining the proposal with a hand gesture—an interaction that quickly became the highlight of the evening both in the stadium and online.
Pauline is a well-known figure on social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok, where she stars in comedic and heartfelt videos with her grandson Ross Smith. Their duo has gained widespread popularity for attending major sporting events and entertaining fans with creative skits and playful stunts.
From WWE wrestling rings to NFL sidelines, Gangster Granny has proven time and again that age is just a number. Her proposal to Messi not only brought joy to the football star but also added another unforgettable chapter to her internet legacy.
Following the viral moment, Pauline’s social media following has skyrocketed, with fans from across the globe praising her boldness and humor. “She’s the queen of the internet,” one user commented. “Messi may not have said yes, but we all did!”
While Messi remains happily married, his reaction to Pauline’s proposal reflected his gracious personality and appreciation for fans of all ages. The moment served as a reminder of the unifying power of sports—and the unexpected ways in which love, laughter, and football can intersect.
