Lionel Messi Retires at 39 After Emotional Decision to End Argentina Career
- Lionel Messi has brought his remarkable Argentina career to a close after more than 2 decades at the highest level
- The 39-year-old leaves behind a record-breaking international legacy after another emotional World Cup campaign
- Messi has revealed what ultimately convinced him that the time had come to walk away from Argentina duty
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Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football aged 39, ending a remarkable 21-year career with Argentina after becoming the country's most-capped player and all-time leading goalscorer.
Messi confirmed his decision on Instagram on Monday, 31 August 2026. He said he wrote his retirement message on 21 July, two days after Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deep down - but I understand that the time has come," Messi said.
"I've given everything I had; I have nothing left to give."
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Messi leaves record-breaking legacy
Messi finishes his Argentina career with 125 goals from 207 appearances. He also won the 2022 World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.
The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 8 goals at this year's World Cup and helped Argentina reach another final.
He said his father's death had strengthened his decision.
"Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before," Messi wrote.
A remarkable Argentina career ends
Messi thanked supporters, teammates, coaches and his family for their support throughout his international journey.
"Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years," he said. "I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much."
Messi's club career will continue with Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the 2028 season.
Siphiwe Tshabalala's 2010 World Cup celebration lives on
Briefly News previously reported that a young football fan challenged Lionel Messi to recreate Siphiwe Tshabalala's iconic 2010 World Cup celebration after scoring his next goal.
The request came as the famous dance enjoyed renewed attention during the 2026 World Cup. Mexico forward Julián Quiñones recreated elements of the celebration after scoring against South Africa.
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Source: Briefly News
