Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a 21-year career with the Argentina national team that delivered a World Cup, two Copa Américas, and made him the country’s all-time leading scorer.
The 39-year-old forward confirmed the decision in a statement released Monday, saying it was time to step aside and allow the next generation to lead La Albiceleste.
“It’s been the greatest honor of my life to wear this shirt,” Messi said. “I gave everything for my country. Now I think it’s the right moment to close this chapter and watch the team continue to grow.”
Messi made his Argentina debut in 2005 at age 18. He went on to earn 192 caps and score 112 goals, both national records.
His international journey was marked by early frustration. Argentina reached four major finals between 2007 and 2016, one World Cup and three Copas and lost them all. Messi briefly announced his retirement from the national team in 2016 after a penalty shootout loss to Chile, but returned months later.
The narrative changed in his 30s. He captained Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, ending the country’s 28-year trophy drought. The crowning moment came in December 2022, when he led Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, defeating France on penalties in what many called the greatest final in history.
Tributes came in immediately from teammates, rivals, and world leaders.
Argentina President’s office called Messi “the greatest ambassador our country has ever had in sport.”
Former teammate Ángel Di María posted: “Thank you for everything, captain. The country will never forget you.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “Football owes Leo a huge debt. He inspired billions.”
Current Argentina coach said the team will “honor his legacy by continuing to compete with the same passion he showed us.”
Messi said he will continue playing club football for now, but his focus internationally will shift to supporting young players. The Argentine Football Association indicated it plans to honor him with a farewell ceremony at the next home qualifier.
His retirement closes one of the most decorated international careers in football history: 1 World Cup, 2 Copas América, 1 Finalissima, 1 Olympic Gold Medal in 2008, and multiple Golden Ball awards.
For Argentina, the era after Messi officially begins. For fans, the memory of a boy from Rosario who carried a nation to glory will remain.
