Published: August 31, 2026 at 10:18 pm
Football legend Lionel Messi has bid farewell to his international career with the FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Spain serving as his final game for Argentina. Spain had won the World Cup after edging Argentina 1-0 in extra-time in July 2026.
Taking to social media on Monday (August 31,2026), the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner expressed his gratitude to fans for their support during his time representing the country.
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“After some time has passed since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell you that I am retiring from the national team,” he originally wrote in Spanish.
“It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts – deep in my soul, but I understand that this is the moment. I always gave everything, not only in these last years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave my all for this shirt, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.”
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“This one hurts me a lot. I love, loved, and will always love being on the national team. I emptied myself; I have nothing more to give and there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here,” he added.
“Thank you for all the affection over these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey.
“I leave with the peace and pride of having given you – together with my teammates – dream moments. It was crazy to live all of this with you,” Messi stated.
Messi’s extraordinary journey, which began in 2005, spanned over two decades. Having played 207 matches and scored 125 goals for Argentina, Messi cemented his legacy by leading the team to World Cup glory in 2022. His list of achievements also includes Copa América titles and a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics
Messi’s extraordinary journey, which began in 2005, spanned over two decades. Having played 207 matches and scored 125 goals for Argentina, Messi cemented his legacy by leading the team to World Cup glory in 2022. His list of achievements also includes Copa América titles and a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Individually, Messi has won a record-breaking eight Ballon d’Or awards. He left an indelible mark on club football by winning 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies with Barcelona. After winning French league titles with PSG, he is currently continuing his club career with Inter Miami.
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Born into an ordinary family in Rosario, Argentina, Messi suffered from a growth hormone deficiency during his childhood. Overcoming numerous challenges, he joined the Barcelona academy and rose to the pinnacle of world football. The boy who stepped onto the pitch with a slight frame transformed into the king of world football through his extraordinary game.
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After facing numerous defeats and disappointments with the Argentina team, Messi once even announced his retirement from international football. However, he returned to the squad and fulfilled the dreams of millions of fans by winning the Copa América and, ultimately, the 2022 World Cup.
Messi’s wife is Antonela Roccuzzo. Childhood sweethearts, the couple married in 2017. They have three sons: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. Messi has frequently stated that his family is of utmost importance in his life.
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Beyond the sport itself, Messi has become one of the highest-earning athletes in the world through endorsements, business deals, and investments.
Magic on the pitch, history written in trophies, and a king among record-holders. Even though Messi’s journey with the Argentina jersey has concluded, his name will endure forever in the world of football.
Revanth Reddy lauds Messi
Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy posted a message for the legendary player on X. “Dear Messi, You have enthralled, entertained, energised and inspired the entire #football world. It was a great privilege to share a few minutes on a football turf with you in #Hyderabad Football won’t be the same again, without the GOAT. Farewell and keep inspiring,” says the post with pictures of Revanth Reddy and Messi taken during the latter’s tour to Hyderabad.
