Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players in history, announced his retirement from international football on Monday, ending a distinguished 21-year career with the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old made the decision two days after Argentina’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final held in New Jersey.

Messi, who debuted for Argentina in 2005, retires as the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances, also making him the country’s most-capped player. Throughout his international career, he participated in six World Cups, reaching the final three times—in 2014, 2022, and 2026. He won the World Cup once in 2022 in Qatar, a tournament where he was named player of the tournament, and twice lifted the Copa América trophy in 2021 and 2024.

In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, Messi said the decision “hurts deep in my soul” but that he recognized “the time has come.” He noted that he had written the statement shortly after the World Cup final and that the recent death of his father Jorge, who passed away in early August after a long illness, had reinforced his decision. Messi described Jorge as an instrumental figure in his life and career.

Messi expressed gratitude to Argentina’s fans, teammates, coaches, and family, thanking them for their support through his international journey. “I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team,” he wrote. “I gave everything I had and don’t have anything more to give." He also acknowledged the emergence of young talents deserving their opportunity with the national side.

Despite the disappointment of losing the 2026 final in extra time to a strong Spanish side, Messi’s legacy in international football remains secure. He stands alongside legendary figures such as Diego Maradona and Pelé, often being regarded as the best player of his generation. Over his career, Messi won the Ballon d’Or, recognizing the world’s best player, a record eight times.

At club level, Messi continues to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), having joined the team in 2023 after prior spells at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. In October 2025, he signed a contract extension with Inter Miami that will keep him playing through the 2028 MLS season.

Reflecting on his career, Messi emphasized his commitment and passion for Argentina’s national team, stating that despite his age and the end of this chapter, he will remain a supporter of the team from outside the pitch. His retirement marks the close of an era for Argentine football and the international game, concluding a career marked by exceptional talent, numerous records, and moments of historic success.