'It hurts!' Lionel Messi retires from international football

The 39-year-old football legend, who has played for Argentina at six World Cup tournaments, has officially called time on his career with the National Team after "a lot of thought".

In an Instagram post translated from Spanish on Monday (31.08.26), he wrote: "After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the National Team...

"It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come.

"I swear to you that I always gave it my all—not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."

Messi revealed he had written his announcement on July 21, two days after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

He explained that after his dad Jorge Messi died earlier on this month aged 68, h is "more convinced than ever before" that he's doing the right thing.

The Inter Miami captain, who will keep playing for the Major League Soccer club, added that "time is running short" and "chapters come to a close", while the decision is "one what hurts me deeply".

He continued: "I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the National Team.

"I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here."

Messi thanked the fans for the support over the last two decades, noting that while he will "miss" being in front of the national team's fans, he's now ready to cheer on the side himself.

He thanked his family "for always being there" on his journey, as well as "every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with".

Messi concluded: "I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you — alongside my teammates — moments we once only dreamed of.

"It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!

Messi is regarded as one of the best players in history, having won eight Ballon d'Or awards.