In a deeply emotional moment for Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, the couple faced a difficult decision regarding their beloved family dog, Hulk, a Bordeaux Mastiff. The incident occurred at their home in Miami, where the family has resided since Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023. The decision to rehome Hulk came after the dog displayed aggressive behavior toward their eldest son, Thiago, prompting concerns for the safety of their three children—Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro.

Hulk, a loyal companion to the Messi family for years, was often featured in heartwarming social media posts, showcasing his gentle demeanor and bond with the children. However, during a routine afternoon at home, Hulk unexpectedly lunged toward Thiago, then 13 years old, while the boy was playing in the family’s backyard. The incident was described as sudden and unprovoked, with Hulk baring his teeth and growling in a manner that alarmed Antonela, who was nearby. Thiago escaped unharmed but was visibly shaken, clinging to his mother as she intervened to calm the dog.

Messi and Antonela, devastated by the incident, consulted with veterinarians and animal behaviorists to understand Hulk’s behavior. The experts determined that Hulk’s actions may have stemmed from stress or a health issue, possibly exacerbated by the family’s high-energy household and frequent visitors. Despite attempts to address the behavior through training, the couple concluded that the risk to their children’s safety was too great. “It broke our hearts,” Antonela shared with close family friends. “Hulk was part of our family, but Thiago and the boys come first.”

The decision to rehome Hulk was not taken lightly. Messi, known for his love of animals, ensured that Hulk was placed with a trusted family friend in Rosario, Argentina, where the dog could live in a calmer environment without young children. The transition was handled with care, and Hulk has since adjusted well, receiving regular updates from his new caretakers. Thiago, though initially upset about losing his pet, understood his parents’ decision and has since bonded with a smaller, gentler rescue dog adopted by the family.

The incident highlights the challenges even high-profile families face when balancing pet ownership with child safety. Messi and Antonela’s swift action reflects their commitment to their children’s well-being, despite the emotional toll of parting with a beloved pet. The story, though heartbreaking, underscores the importance of prioritizing safety in a household filled with love and activity. As Messi continues to shine on the pitch for Inter Miami, his family’s resilience off the field remains equally inspiring, navigating tough decisions with grace and unity.