Argentina legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football in an emotional statement, just over a month after his country's defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
Messi, who scored 125 goals in 207 appearances for Argentina after making his debut in 2005, won two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup, and confirmed his decision to call it quits on social media.
“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team…" the Inter Miami playmaker began.
"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment.
"I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
"There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give.
"Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here."
Argentina won three consecutive major tournaments between 2021 and 2024, with Messi leading the way as captain. Their run came to an end in the USA, when Ferran Torres' strike saw Spain clinch an extra-time win.
Messi scored eight goals in the 2026 edition, taking his overall tally to 21 at World Cups, after netting in five consecutive tournaments. Only Kylian Mbappe has scored more (22).
The 39-year-old forged a stellar legacy at international level, winning the Golden Ball in 2014 after losing in his first World Cup final at the hands of Germany, before becoming the only player to win the award twice in 2022. Their triumph that year ended a 36-year drought without football's biggest prize.
"Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones,"he continued.
"Thank you to my family for always being there and for being with me throughout this beautiful but difficult journey. Thank you to every coach, teammate and director I had the chance to share it with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
"I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you!"
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner also suffered the loss of his father, Jorge, on Saturday, August 8th, which Messi said contributed to his decision.
"I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced of this decision than before.”
Messi is coming off the back of scoring four goals for Miami in a 7-1 victory over CF Montreal, as they look to defend their MLS title.
