The 39-year-old forward, who plays club soccer for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, finished his international career with 125 goals in 207 appearances for the Albiceleste.
The Decision and Final International Chapter
According to Messi’s statement on Instagram, he originally wrote his retirement letter on July 21—two days after Argentina’s extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey. He delayed publishing the announcement due to his father’s health issues; Jorge Messi subsequently died on August 8 in Rosario, as reported by team sources. “It was a decision that hurt, and still hurts deeply, but I understand that the time has come,” Messi wrote in his post.
The recent tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada marked Messi’s record-tying sixth World Cup appearance. While the campaign ended with a defeat to Spain, Messi leaves the international stage as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and appearance maker. His career with the senior national team began in August 2005 against Hungary, a debut that lasted just two minutes before he received a red card after entering as a substitute.
Did you know? Lionel Messi’s 125 international goals place him second on the all-time men’s international scoring list behind Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, who holds the record with 146 goals, according to international soccer statistics.
Comparing Eras: From Early Frustration to Global Glory
Messi’s journey with Argentina included severe hurdles before the team’s recent run of titles. A decade ago, following a defeat to Chile in the 2016 Copa America final where he missed a penalty kick, Messi briefly retired from international duty. He reversed that decision following public appeals and subsequently led Argentina to the 2021 Copa America title, the 2022 World Cup trophy in Qatar, and another Copa America triumph in 2024.
His achievements place him alongside Brazil icon Pelé and compatriot Diego Maradona in soccer history. Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni described Messi during the recent World Cup tournament as “pure history” and “a legend.”
Tributes From Teammates and Global Soccer Officials
Following Monday’s announcement, figures across the sport offered public reactions. FIFA president Gianni Infantino praised Messi on social media “for an extraordinary international career that has inspired millions of people and redefined our sport,” noting that his “magical talent and humility will be remembered forever.” Argentina President Javier Milei posted a brief message reading, “Thank you very much, impossible man.”
Teammates also recognized his departure. According to published social media statements, Rodrigo De Paul thanked Messi for “your unconditional love for our country, your internal battles to never give up, your strength in always enduring injustices, and your leadership and character.” Leandro Paredes added, “You are and always will be the greatest of all time.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals did Lionel Messi score for Argentina?
Messi scored 125 goals in 207 games for the Argentina senior national team, making him the country’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Is Lionel Messi retiring from club soccer?
How many World Cups did Messi play in?
Messi played in a record-tying six World Cups, winning the tournament in 2022 and reaching the final in 2014 and 2026.
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