Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international soccer on Monday, concluding a 21‑year journey with Argentina that encompassed three World Cups, two Copa América titles and a record‑breaking goal tally.
A career defined by triumphs and trials
The forward finished his international stint with 207 appearances and 125 goals, including 21 in World Cup matches, making him the nation’s all‑time leading scorer. He lifted the 2022 World Cup trophy and also secured the 2014 and 2021 Copa América crowns, while his eight Ballon d’Or awards placed him among the sport’s immortals.
Messi’s decision was shaped by personal loss; his father, Jorge Messi, passed away on August 8, 2024, just days after the World Cup final. The grief prompted the player to step back from the national side, a move he had previously considered after the 2016 Copa América defeat but delayed until now.
Despite ending his international duties, Messi remains active in club football with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, where he continues to showcase the brilliance that earned him comparisons to Diego Maradona and Pelé. Coach Lionel Scaloni highlighted the impact of Messi’s leadership, and Cristiano Ronaldo congratulated his rival on the historic career.