Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football after leading Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, where they were defeated by Spain. The 39-year-old forward, who won the World Cup in 2022, said the decision was painful but the right time to step away.
A Painful Decision
In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Messi expressed that retiring from international football was a decision that hurt deeply. 'It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time,' he wrote. Messi emphasized his commitment to the national team, stating, 'I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt.'
A Storied Career
Messi's international career spanned 21 years, during which he played 207 times for Argentina and became the country's leading scorer with 125 goals. His journey with the national team began in 2005 when he was first called up by Jose Nestor Pekerman as an 18-year-old. Messi's career highlights include winning the World Cup in 2022, two Copa Americas in 2021 and 2024, and being a consistent presence in major tournaments.
Despite his success, Messi's relationship with Argentine fans was complex. While he achieved unparalleled success in the latter years of his career, he initially did not hold the same place in the hearts of Argentines as legends like Diego Maradona. However, his decision to represent Argentina rather than Spain, where he moved at 13 to join Barcelona, earned him immense respect and gratitude from his teammates and fans alike.
Messi's retirement comes after a series of emotional events, including the death of his father Jorge in August, which left him with serious doubts about continuing his football career. 'I don't know what I'll do without you, I don't know how to go on. I just played football, and now I have serious doubts about continuing to do so for much longer,' he said at the time.
In his final international tournament, Messi inspired Argentina to reach the 2026 World Cup final by scoring eight goals and providing two assists. However, the dream of lifting the trophy again ended in heartbreak as Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the final. Messi was pictured in tears after receiving his loser's medal, describing the pain of defeat as 'immense' and stating it would 'take a long time for this wound to heal.'






































