Who Is Pauline Kana? 98-Year-Old Grandma Steals the Show by Proposing to Messi

In a moment that instantly went viral, Pauline Kana, a 98-year-old internet sensation, stole the spotlight during Inter Miami’s 2-2 Club World Cup draw with Palmeiras — not with football skills, but with a hilariously bold marriage proposal to none other than Lionel Messi.

A Proposal Like No Other

On June 27, 2025, as Inter Miami battled to stay alive in the tournament at Hard Rock Stadium, fans noticed a handwritten sign in the crowd that read:
“Messi, Will You Marry Me? – Pauline, 98”

The camera quickly zoomed in on Pauline Kana, who smiled proudly while holding the sign. Messi, warming up on the sidelines, spotted it and responded with a thumbs-up and a big grin — a rare mid-match gesture from the focused legend.

Who Is Pauline Kana?

Pauline Kana is no stranger to internet fame. She’s known for her viral videos with her grandson, Ross Smith, a popular content creator. The two often attend major sporting events together — from NFL games to WWE shows — where Pauline always brings a mix of humor, heart, and unpredictability.

The grandma-grandson duo has built a massive fanbase online, thanks to their lighthearted pranks and wholesome content. Pauline’s proposal to Messi is just the latest in a long list of viral moments that showcase her fearless, fun-loving spirit.

The Internet Reacts

Social media couldn’t handle the proposal. One user joked, “She shot her shot and it paid off.”
Another added, “I want to be like Pauline when I grow up.”
Someone else said, “Messi might be married, but Pauline won our hearts.”

Others chimed in with hilarious takes like: “Who’s gonna tell her Messi doesn’t speak English?”
and “Sorry grandma, try Ronaldo next!”

Messi’s Night, Pauline’s Moment

Though Inter Miami let a two-goal lead slip, the result was enough to push them into the knockout round, where Messi is now set to face his former team, Paris Saint-Germain. But for many, the real highlight of the night wasn’t the draw — it was Pauline Kana’s fearless charm.

As Messi walked off the field, visibly frustrated about the match, fans believe Pauline’s stunt might’ve lifted his spirits just a little.

Because at 98, Pauline isn’t slowing down. She’s proving that you’re never too old to go viral — or propose to your idol.