Messi Announces Retirement from Argentina National Team: 1 World Cup Title, 2 Runner-Up Finishes and 2 Copa America Championships

Beijing time, September 1: The 39-year-old Argentine star Lionel Messi announced on social media that he will retire from the Argentina national team. Notably, Messi's retirement letter was written on July 21, two days after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup final.

Looking back on Messi's national team career, he made 207 appearances for Argentina, contributing 125 goals and 68 assists. He won one World Cup title and finished as runner-up twice in the World Cup, won two Copa America championships, and also claimed the Beijing Olympic title.

Messi's farewell letter:

During the days after the final, I repeatedly reflected and wanted to tell everyone: I will retire from the Argentina national team……

This was a decision that once caused me pain and still hurts deeply to this day, but I understand that the moment to say goodbye has arrived. I promise everyone that I always gave everything I had. It was not only during the years when we achieved honors; it was true even before that. I will always fight until the end for this blue-and-white shirt, only to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.

The chapters of life are closing page by page, and the ending of this chapter leaves me deeply saddened. I love, have loved, and will always love representing the national team in this shirt. I have given everything I have and have nothing more to offer. At the same time, a large group of outstanding young players has emerged within the team, and they deserve to stand on this stage.

Thank you for all the love you have given me over these twenty years. I will deeply miss standing on the pitch and hearing the earth-shaking cheers. From now on, I will become an ordinary member among you, always cheering for Argentina from the sidelines. In good times and especially in difficult moments, I will remain firmly by your side.

Thank you to my family, who have always stayed by my side and accompanied me through this brilliant yet challenging journey. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and staff member I have worked with. I take away countless precious and unforgettable memories.

I leave with peace in my heart and immense pride. Together with my teammates, we achieved those dream moments that once seemed impossible for everyone. Experiencing all of this together with you has felt like a dream. I love you!

Thank God for allowing me to be born Argentine.

Come on, Argentina!

*This message was written on July 21, two days after the final ended. Having now gone through my father's situation, I am more certain of this decision than ever before.