Lionel Messi, the 39‑year‑old Argentine maestro who has dazzled fans for more than two decades, confirmed that he will hang up his national‑team boots. The eight‑time Ballon d'Or winner, who captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup triumph, once again guided the side to a World Cup final this summer, underscoring his enduring class. Yet, after 21 years since his debut, Messi has decided to call a close to his international journey, leaving behind a record that includes 125 goals in 207 appearances – the highest tally ever recorded by an Argentine player.
Messi’s résumé of achievements with La Albiceleste is unparalleled. He has lifted every major trophy available to a national side: two Copa América crowns in 2021 and 2024, the World Cup in Qatar, and the inaugural Finalissima in 2022, where Argentina defeated Europe’s champions. By retiring, he becomes the first player to win every top‑level international competition while also holding the all‑time scoring record for his country.
The decision was foreshadowed by a heartfelt Instagram post Messi shared after his father, Jorge Messi, passed away in early August. In that message, the football legend hinted that his father’s death had prompted him to reflect on his future with the national team. The official retirement statement, which Messi disclosed was originally drafted on July 21 – two days after the World Cup final – explains that he felt a deep, lingering pain and recognized that he no longer had anything left to contribute on the pitch. Argentina’s final match of the tournament ended in a 1‑0 defeat to Spain, with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time to hand La Roja a second World Cup title.
The loss, coupled with the emotional weight of his father's absence, solidified Messi’s resolve. He wrote, "Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before." Jorge Messi, who had acted as his son’s agent for many years, died in Rosario shortly after the tournament concluded, following a prolonged illness.
In a poignant tribute, Messi said, "I wanted to win it so I could bring the trophy to you and show you a new one. I couldn't, my legs had nothing left. This time I tried to push past my physical limits, but I couldn't.
I never managed to feel right. I am going to miss you a lot, but you will always be present, especially in the education of my children, because I teach them and educate them as you did with me. Rest in peace and take care of us from above like you did here.
Thanks for everything. I love you, dad." The Argentine star’s retirement note continued with a reflective tone: "After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the national team. It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come.
I swear to you that I always gave it my all—not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football." He added, "Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team.
I've given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here." Messi expressed gratitude to the fans, his family, coaches, teammates, and officials who accompanied him on a journey he described as "beautiful, yet so difficult." He reflected on the memories that will stay with him forever: "I take with me unforgettable memories and moments. I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you—alongside my teammates—moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all.
I love you!" He concluded with a spiritual note, thanking God for his Argentine identity and rallying his compatriots one last time: "Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Let's go, Argentina!" He reminded readers that the words were penned on July 21, two days after the final, and that his father's passing reinforced his decision. Messi’s retirement marks the end of an era not only for Argentine football but for the global game. Over two decades, he transformed the national side from a perennial under‑achiever into a dominant force, inspiring countless youngsters worldwide.
While his absence will be felt on the field, his legacy will endure through the young talents he has paved the way for, and through the countless moments of brilliance that defined his tenure. As the football world bids farewell to the greatest Argentine ever to wear the sky‑blue and white, the sport looks ahead to a new generation ready to carry the torch, while fans worldwide will forever cherish the magic that Lionel Messi brought to the international stage.