A Historic International Career
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina’s national team at age 39, ending 21 years of international soccer. He completed his career with 207 appearances and a national-record 125 goals. Twenty-one of those goals came at World Cups. Only Cristiano Ronaldo has scored more often in men’s international matches. Messi also played in a record-tying six World Cups and became the tournament’s leading scorer briefly during the 2026 competition.
His greatest achievement arrived in Qatar, where he led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title. Messi also reached the final in 2014 and again in 2026, when Spain won in extra time. His record placed him alongside Diego Maradona and Pelé among soccer’s greatest players. Although his international career has ended, Messi will continue playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Frustration Eventually Turns Into Glory
Messi’s national-team journey began shortly after his success at the 2005 under-20 championship. His senior debut at age 18 lasted only two minutes because he received a red card against Hungary. Years of disappointment followed, including defeats in three consecutive major finals. After missing a penalty against Chile in the 2016 Copa America final, Messi briefly retired from international duty.
Public encouragement from Maradona and Argentina’s president helped change his decision. Messi returned and eventually won Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024 around his World Cup triumph. The most recent tournament showed that he remained an elite player, despite struggling in the final. He also scored four goals for Inter Miami during a 7-1 victory shortly before announcing his retirement.
A Personal Goodbye Draws Tributes
Messi wrote his retirement letter on July 21, two days after the World Cup final. However, he delayed publishing it while his father faced serious health problems. Jorge Messi died on August 8 in Rosario. In his message, the captain said leaving Argentina still hurt deeply. He thanked supporters for two decades of affection and expressed pride in the moments created with his teammates.
Reactions reflected Messi’s national and international influence. Argentine president Javier Milei called him an “impossible man,” while FIFA president Gianni Infantino praised his talent and humility. Argentina’s soccer association thanked him for representing the country and making supporters dream. Teammates Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, and Cristian Romero highlighted his leadership, resilience, and devotion to Argentina. Coach Lionel Scaloni described him simply as history and a legend.
References
Rey, D. (2026, September 1). Lionel Messi retires from playing for Argentina. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/messi-argentina-retires-8df27ab2059a740ea5bc97dbc6a49725