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Lionel Messi has concluded his 21-year tenure representing Argentina on the international stage, announcing his retirement at age 39. The decision came roughly seven weeks after Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and shortly following the death of his father, Jorge. Messi cited emotional exhaustion and a sense of completion, stating he has given everything possible to his national team across two decades of service.
Throughout his international career, Messi established himself as one of football’s most decorated performers. He accumulated 125 goals across 217 appearances for Argentina, securing the nation’s goal-scoring record. His most significant achievement came in 2022 when he led Argentina to World Cup victory, followed by reaching another final in 2026. Beyond these major tournaments, Messi captured an Olympic gold medal with Argentina’s youth squad in 2008 and competed in multiple Copa America competitions.
While stepping away from international competition, Messi remains active in club football with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer, where he has two years remaining on his contract. His recent performances have demonstrated continued excellence, including pivotal contributions to Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Cup championship victory. At 39, he continues to showcase the technical mastery and playmaking ability that defined his storied career across elite European leagues and now in American competition.
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Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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