Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football after leading Argentina to a second straight World Cup final in July.
The 39-year-old confirmed the decision on Monday, saying it was painful but that he believes the time is right.
“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.
“I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt,” he added.
Messi guided Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title after beating France on penalties in Doha. However, Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the 2026 final.
The decision comes after Messi said he had “serious doubts” about continuing to play football of any sort for “much longer” following the death of his father, Jorge, in August.
In his full statement, Messi thanked Argentina fans, his family, coaches, teammates and directors for their support throughout his 20-year international career.
He said he leaves with peace and pride, adding that younger players now deserve their chance with the national team.
Messi’s contract with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season.
He also revealed that he wrote the retirement statement on July 21, two days after the World Cup final, but became even more certain about the decision after his father’s death.
