Footballer Lionel Messi spotted wearing a Rolex

Lionel Messi, Argentina's World Cup champion, appeared at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Qatar wearing a newly released Rolex Day-Date 40 Ref. 228235JG—a white gold variant featuring a striking green sunburst dial. The photograph captures the footballer in his Argentina team kit and official accreditation, the timepiece visible on his wrist as he celebrated a hat-trick performance against Algeria. The Rolex Day-Date 40 remains the preferred dress chronograph among elite athletes and world leaders, and this particular reference exemplifies why.

The Ref. 228235JG houses Rolex's Calibre 3255, a 3,235-component automatic movement offering 70 hours of power reserve and Chronergy escapement technology for improved accuracy. The case measures 40 mm in diameter and 12.5 mm thick, machined from 18K white gold with a fluted bezel—a signature design element of the Day-Date collection. The green sunburst dial is factory-set with ten baguette-cut diamonds as hour markers, creating a refined contrast between precious metal, coloured enamel, and gemstones. Water resistance extends to 100 metres, sufficient for daily wear despite the watch's formal aesthetic.

The 228235JG entered production recently as part of Rolex's expanded colour palette for the Day-Date 40. Green dials on the president model remain relatively uncommon compared to classic champagne or slate variants, making this reference a contemporary collector's choice. The baguette diamond setting elevates the watch beyond standard diamond-set models, appealing to buyers seeking understated luxury rather than full pavé coverage. Production numbers remain limited, contributing to sustained demand among grey-market dealers.

Messi's choice of the Day-Date 40 aligns with his status as global sports royalty—the collection has been worn by world leaders, dignitaries, and championship athletes since its 1956 introduction. The green dial adds contemporary appeal while maintaining the formal gravitas appropriate for official World Cup ceremonies. This sighting underscores the Day-Date's enduring cultural significance beyond watchmaking circles.

Retail pricing for the Rolex Day-Date 40 Ref. 228235JG stands at approximately $62,700 USD, though grey-market listings frequently exceed this figure due to limited availability. Authorized dealer waitlists for white gold Day-Date models with diamond settings typically extend 12–24 months, making secondary-market acquisition the practical path for most collectors. The combination of precious metal, gemstone setting, and recent release suggests strong appreciation potential.