Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international soccer on Monday.
In an Instagram post featuring a handwritten note in Spanish, Messi confirmed that he is stepping away from the Argentina national team at the age of 39.
He added a poignant footnote: “*I wrote these words on July 21st, just two days after the final. After everything that happened with my dad, I am even more sure of my decision.”
Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, passed away on Aug. 8 at the age of 68 in a hospital located in Rosario, central Argentina.
Having participated in six World Cups, Messi led Argentina to victory in Qatar in 2022 and to the finals in 2026, where they were defeated by Spain.
In his social media post, he expressed: “After the time that has passed since the final and much reflection, I want everyone to know that I am retiring from the Argentina national team…
“This was a decision that has hurt me deeply, but I recognize that the time has come. I promise you that I have always given my all—not just in these last few years when we achieved everything, but throughout my entire career; I always fought and laid everything on the field for this jersey, to bring joy and pride to all Argentines.
“Time is fleeting, chapters must close, and this one truly pains me. I love, have loved, and will always cherish being part of the national team. I have given everything I had; I am empty now, and there are many talented young players who deserve this chance.
“Thank you for all the love over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing your voices from the pitch. Now, I will join you all as a supporter, cheering from the sidelines—through thick and thin, especially the tough times.
“Thank you to my family for always supporting me through this beautiful yet challenging journey. I am grateful to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve encountered along the way. I carry unforgettable memories and moments with me.
“I leave with peace of mind and pride, knowing that I, alongside my teammates, gave you moments we had only dreamed about. It has been an incredible experience to share this with all of you. I love you!
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
“Let’s go, Argentina!”
*”I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, following the events with my dad, I am even more resolute in my decision.”
The captain of Argentina holds the record as the nation’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, with a tally of 125 goals in 207 appearances.
Messi is also the prolific all-time scorer in South American soccer history.
His leadership guided Argentina to their World Cup victory in 2022, the nation’s first in 36 years and third overall.
Prior to that, Messi was instrumental in ending Argentina’s 28-year trophy drought by winning the 2021 Copa América, and following that success with another win in 2024.
This is not the first time Messi has announced his retirement from international duty; he briefly stepped away in 2016 after leading Argentina to three consecutive finals without winning. However, he reversed that decision shortly thereafter, leading the nation to the Copa América titles and the World Cup victory.
The announcement of his retirement elicited strong reactions across the globe.
Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, paid homage to him through an emotional Instagram post, saying, “I have witnessed you persevere when faced with challenges and always try again. After so many years, I was also fortunate to see you achieve your dreams and experience some of the happiest moments of our lives. You deserved this story and so much more. We love you endlessly,” she wrote in Spanish.
Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, acknowledged him on Instagram, saying, “Thank you very much, impossible man.” The latter part was in all capital letters.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a bilingual tribute, lauding Messi “for an extraordinary international career that has inspired millions and redefined our sport. Your magical talent and humility will be remembered forever.”
The Argentine Football Association expressed its gratitude through social media in both Spanish and English: “Thank you for everything, Leo. Thank you for representing Argentina. Thank you for making us dream. Thank you for turning so many dreams into reality. The legend is yours, forever.”
Rodrigo De Paul, a teammate both with Argentina and Inter Miami, paid tribute on social media, originally in Spanish: “your unconditional love for our country, your internal battles to never give up, your strength in enduring injustices, and your leadership with every teammate.”
Enzo Fernández, a Chelsea midfielder and a newcomer to the Argentina squad just two months before the 2022 World Cup alongside Messi, expressed his gratitude in Spanish: “Thank you for your kindness, for everything you’ve taught me, and for letting me be part of your incredible journey. We’re going to miss you dearly, captain.”
England legend Gary Lineker shared an emotional message highlighting Messi’s impact: “You didn’t just play for Argentina; you bore their hopes, dreams, and expectations for two decades. Football will continue, as it always does, but the memories you’ve created for Argentina and the world will never fade. Thank you, Leo.”
Information from The Associated Press was utilized in this report.