The Times of India

Who is Joan Monfort? The photographer behind Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamals iconic viral photoshoot

Photographer Joan Monfort captured a 2007 charity event featuring Lionel Messi holding baby Lamine Yamal. This remarkable image was part of a charity calendar organized for children's causes. Yamal's mother won a raffle, leading to the now-famous photograph at Camp Nou. Messi appeared shy and awkward while holding the infant during the unique photoshoot. The pictures resurfaced in 2024, gaining immense popularity as Yamal emerged as a football star.