Sergio Aguero placed $1,000 bet on Lionel Messi ahead of World Cup and won hefty sum

Sergio Aguero placed a $1,000 bet on Lionel Messi to win the World Cup Golden Ball award ahead of this winter's tournament in Qatar.

The 34-year-old former Manchester City forward, who announced his retirement last year after being diagnosed with heart arrhythmia, has been Argentina's number one cheerleader in recent weeks.

After initially being denied access to La Albiceleste's base in Qatar, Aguero would stay in the Middle East and support his former teammates, both on and off the training ground.

In fact, just days before the World Cup final against France, he took part in some shooting drills at the Qatar University site – and even saved a penalty.

Aguero's friendship with Messi, who is also his son's godfather, has blossomed over the years.

In fact, to put their relationship into perspective, the former Barcelona striker became Messi's roommate in the build up to Sunday's final, according to Argentine outlet TYC Sports.

His backing was there for all to see. In fact, ahead of Argentina's opener against Saudi Arabia on November 22, the former Barcelona striker oozed so much confidence that he placed a bet.

Taking to his Instagram story on Monday, he posted a screenshot of the $1,000 bet alongside the caption: "On November 17, I bet that the best player in the World Cup would be Messi and I just realized it."

Aguero scooped a sum of $8,264 thanks to the 8.25/1 bet.

Aguero and Messi's friendship extends to other family members, too. After the final whistle on Sunday night, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner was surprised by Aguero's mother.

Messi, who became the ninth player to win the Champions League, Ballon d'Or and World Cup, sunk to his knees in utter euphoria.

And as the celebrations continued ahead of the trophy lift, Messi was stood on his own for a brief moment when a woman rushed towards him.

A security man looked concerned at first and wondered if Messi was being ambushed by a pitch invader.

But it wasn't the case. The woman who grabbed Messi from behind was the mother of his long-time friend Aguero and the look on his face when he realised was beautiful.

Thoughts on Aguero's bet? Did you think Lionel Messi was going to lift the Golden Boot award ahead of the tournament opener?

Let us know in the comments.