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[Awards Review]
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▶ Messi calls time on Argentina career
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[2026/09/01 ]
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Argentina superstar and FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ champion Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football.
Messi made the news official on Monday via his Instagram account. Messi originally wrote his goodbye letter on 21 July, two days after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. Following the death of his father Jorge on 8 August, the 39-year-old decided to share the news with the world.
 "After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the Argentina national team,” wrote Messi.
"It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all — not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
"Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I've given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here."
Messi steps away from the international stage with an astounding list of achievements. In 34 World Cup matches, he scored 21 goals and boasts a slew of various World Cup records, including most victories by an individual player and oldest player to score a hat-trick.
The Argentinian ace helped his country reach three finals at the global showpiece, narrowly falling to Germany 1-0 at Brazil 2014 before triumphing in epic fashion at Qatar 2022, followed by this year's loss to Spain.
Messi was just as impressive in continental competition with the Albiceleste, reaching a whopping five CONMEBOL Copa America finals and lifting the trophy in both 2021 and 2024.
"Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years," he added. "I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I'll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside (through the good times and the bad — especially the bad).
"Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this journey — so beautiful, yet so difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I've shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
"I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you — alongside my teammates — moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!
"Thank you, God, for making me Argentinian.
"Let's go, Argentina!
"*I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before."
Gracias, Leo.
- The origianl text resource is from FIFA Official Website |
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