Football legend Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an emotional end to his extraordinary career with Argentina. The 39-year-old captain confirmed the decision on Monday, August 31, saying the time had come to step away from the national team.
Messi’s final appearance for Argentina came in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where Argentina lost 1–0 to Spain after extra time. Although the defeat ended his hopes of lifting another World Cup trophy, Messi leaves the international stage as one of the greatest players in football history.
During more than two decades with Argentina, Messi made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals, setting national records for both. His greatest achievement came in 2022, when he finally led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar. He also won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, transforming his international legacy after years of heartbreaking defeats.
In his farewell message, Messi described retirement as a painful decision but said he believed it was the right moment. He emphasized that he had always given everything for Argentina and wanted to bring happiness and pride to his country.
The superstar also praised the young generation of Argentine players, saying they deserved opportunities with the national team.
Messi’s international retirement does not mean the end of his playing career. He is expected to continue playing club football with Inter Miami, while Argentina begins a new era without the iconic No. 10.
For millions of fans around the world, Messi’s farewell marks the closing of one of football’s most remarkable chapters.
