Soccer icon Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international play on Monday.
In an Instagram post, Messi revealed that after much reflection following the World Cup final, he has decided to announce his retirement from the national team.
He added that this decision was incredibly painful, and it still deeply hurts, but he knows it’s the right time.
Messi expressed that he’s always given his all, not just in recent years when it achieved everything, but throughout his entire career. He fought for this jersey with everything he had, aiming to bring joy to the fans and make Argentines proud through football.
He continued that as it enters the final chapters of his career, this farewell is particularly painful. He has loved representing his country, and he always will. He’s poured everything into it, and now he has nothing left to give.
Messi acknowledged that there are talented players coming up who are more than capable of taking his place.
Expressing gratitude for two decades of support, Messi said that he’ll deeply miss hearing your voices in the stadium. From now on, he’ll be one of you, cheering for our team through thick and thin, especially during tough times.
He thanked his family for their unwavering support, adding that he’s also grateful to all the coaches, teammates, and everyone involved in his journey. He leaves with a heart full of unforgettable memories.
Messi concluded that he departs with immense pride, knowing it created dream-like moments together. It’s overwhelming to think about all that’s been shared.
Throughout his illustrious career with FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami, Messi amassed an incredible 927 goals and 421 assists. His triumphs in the 2022 Qatar World Cup and Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024 have solidified his status as one of the greatest players in soccer history.
