Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, bringing an end to one of the most celebrated careers in Argentina’s history.
The Argentine captain confirmed the decision on Monday, saying it was painful but that he believed it was the right time to step away from the national team.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi wrote on Instagram.
Messi also said he had always given everything for Argentina, including during the difficult years before the team’s recent successes.
The retirement comes after Messi led Argentina to consecutive World Cup finals. He guided the country to glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Argentina defeated France on penalties.
Argentina, however, fell short in the 2026 final, losing 1-0 to Spain.
Messi’s decision also follows the death of his father, Jorge, in August. Before announcing his international retirement, the football star had expressed serious doubts about continuing to play football for much longer.
Messi leaves international football having established himself as one of Argentina’s greatest players. His career with the national team included the 2021 Copa América title, the 2022 World Cup triumph and another World Cup final appearance in 2026.
The 39-year-old remains under contract with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami until the end of the 2028 season.
