Lionel Messi retires from international football at 39

BUENOS AIRES: Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on an extraordinary 21-year career with the national team.

The 39-year-old confirmed his decision in an emotional message posted on Instagram, describing retirement as a painful choice but saying he believes the time has finally come to step away from Argentina duty.

Messi’s final international appearance came in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time. Despite the disappointment, Messi had once again guided his country to the tournament’s final, following Argentina’s triumphant World Cup campaign in Qatar in 2022.

His international career ends with remarkable numbers. Messi made 207 appearances for Argentina and scored 125 goals, making him both the country’s most-capped player and its all-time leading scorer.

From heartbreak to glory

Messi’s journey with Argentina was not always filled with celebrations. After several painful defeats in major finals, he eventually led the team to the 2021 Copa América title, followed by the Finalissima and the 2022 World Cup triumph.

The 2022 victory in Qatar represented the defining moment of his international career and cemented his status among football’s greatest players. He also helped Argentina reach the 2026 World Cup final before Spain ended their title hopes.

Messi’s retirement marks the end of an era for Argentina, where he succeeded in building a legacy of his own after years of comparisons with Diego Maradona.

Although his international career is over, Messi is expected to continue playing club football with Inter Miami, meaning fans will still have the opportunity to watch one of the sport’s most iconic figures on the field.