Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina’s national football team after his final World Cup appearance in July 2024, a decision that came after the emotional loss of his father, Jorge Messi, in August 2023.
A Quiet Farewell
The 39‑year‑old captain reflected on two decades of service, noting that he had been runner‑up in the 2014 final and had lifted the trophy in 2022, becoming the second player after Cafu to appear in three World Cup finals.
Stats and Records
In the 2024 final, Argentina faced Spain and managed only a single shot from Messi, a 1‑0 loss that underscored the bittersweet nature of his exit.
Messi finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, earning the Silver Ball award and finishing second in the Golden Boot race, while also surpassing Miroslav Klose as the all‑time leading World Cup scorer, though the record was later taken by Kylian Mbappe.
Beyond the World Cup, Messi holds the record for most appearances (207) and goals (125) for Argentina, has collected eight Ballon d’Or trophies, and has been a constant presence in the team’s leadership since 2011.
He remains under contract with Inter Miami CF, the MLS club he joined after leaving international football, with the agreement set to run for another two years.
Looking ahead, the next major tournament for Argentina will be the Copa America in 2028, when Messi will be 41, while the 2026 World Cup will see him turn 43, with matches scheduled across Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Spain, Portugal and Morocco.
In his retirement statement, Messi expressed gratitude to fans, family, teammates and coaches, highlighting the 20‑year dedication to the national side and the personal challenges that shaped his decision.