Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has retired from international football.
The 39-year-old announced his decision on Monday, August 31, 2026, ending his remarkable career with the Argentina national team.
Messi leaves Argentina as the country’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 125 goals in 207 appearances.
His international career spanned more than two decades. During that period, he experienced both heartbreaking defeats and historic victories.
The biggest moment of his career came in 2022 when he led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar.
Messi also helped Argentina win the Copa América in 2021 and 2024.
He further lifted the Finalissima trophy with the national team in 2022.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marked his final tournament with Argentina. The defending champions reached the final but lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.
Despite the defeat, Messi leaves international football as one of the greatest players in the history of the game.
He is also expected to continue his club career with Inter Miami.
For Argentina, Messi’s retirement marks the end of an era.
His legacy includes a World Cup title, two Copa América trophies, numerous records and more than 200 appearances for his country.
