Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, ending more than two decades of service in the iconic blue‑and‑white shirt. In a heartfelt letter he reflected on the journey that began with a painful 2016 Copa América final loss, a moment that first led him to step away from international duty.
A career defined by triumphs and tributes
Four years later he returned to the squad and delivered the ultimate prize, guiding Argentina to the 2022 World Cup victory, and then added back‑to‑back Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, the first consecutive championships the nation had celebrated since 1993.
His club career at Inter Miami has continued to flourish, with a recent four‑goal performance against CF Montreal lifting him to the top of the league’s scoring chart and securing a contract that runs through the 2028 MLS season.
Legacy and the road ahead
Messi will now turn his focus to club commitments, savoring summers free from the demands of international travel while remaining a symbolic figure for Argentine football. He promises to support the team from the stands, echoing the loyalty he has shown throughout his career.