Lionel Messi played his last match for the Argentina national team during this year’s World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium.
The soccer icon, now 39, announced his retirement from international duty on Monday after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in that final, which occurred four years after he helped secure a World Cup victory for his country. In an Instagram post, Messi shared a handwritten note spread across three pieces of notebook paper, revealing he wrote it on July 21, just two days after Argentina’s loss.
This decision follows the recent passing of his father, Jorge, who was 68 and had been battling an illness.
“Today, after what happened with my dad, I am more convinced than ever,” Messi expressed in Spanish.
Messi continues to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and holds the record for the most goals (125) and appearances (207) for Argentina.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts to my core, but I understand that it’s the right time,” he shared. “I swear that I always gave my all, not just in the years we won everything, but also before, fighting for this jersey to bring joy and pride to all Argentinians through football.”
“There’s not much time left, and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts me a lot. I love, loved, and will always love being on the National Team. I’ve given everything; I have nothing more to give. Plus, there are some wonderful young players ready to step up.”
Despite his enormous success with Barcelona—where he claimed 10 La Liga titles and four Champions League titles—one criticism was that he had not secured a major trophy for Argentina.
His first two World Cup appearances ended in quarterfinal exits in 2006 and 2010, he suffered a final defeat to Germany in 2014, and in 2018, Argentina fell in the Round of 16 to France.
Additionally, three Copa America finals slipped away from him, including a painful loss to Chile in 2016, which briefly prompted him to retire from international duty. Eventually, Messi and his teammates triumphed in the 2021 Copa America, beating Brazil 1-0 in the final.
The following year, Messi led Argentina to a World Cup championship, marking the country’s third title and its first since 1986.
“Thanks to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful yet challenging journey,” Messi concluded. “Thanks to all the coaches, teammates, and managers with whom I’ve shared these experiences. I carry with me countless unforgettable memories.”
