Lionel Messi's family says his father Jorge is recovering from an unspecified medical issue

The Messi family issued a statement Thursday that said Lionel's father Jorge is recovering from an unspecified health issue and currently "under medical supervision." The statement then went on to denounce public discussion about 68-year-old Jorge Messi's health. "In light of the various accounts, rumors, and speculations circulating recently, the family wishes to express its deep distress regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples shown by some individuals in addressing a strictly private family matter," the statement said. "Furthermore, the family wishes to clarify that only his immediate family possesses accurate and reliable information regarding Jorge's condition. Consequently, any account, statement, or information not originating from the family itself or its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful. "At a time like this, we call for responsibility, prudence and humanity. A person's health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media attention. We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern we have received, and we ask that the privacy and confidentiality of Jorge and his entire family be respected throughout the process." Lionel Messi scored the first hat trick of his World Cup career Tuesday night in a 3-0 win over Algeria . After he scored his first goal of the game, Messi cried and said his tears were "completely unrelated to football." Messi's hat trick came as he became the first man to compete in six World Cups and also in his 200th appearance for the Argentina national team. The hat trick also tied him with Germany's Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history at 16 goals. Argentina's World Cup campaign continues on Monday against Austria before its final group stage game on June 27 against Jordan.