Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on August 31, bringing an end to one of the most celebrated international careers in soccer history. The decision comes after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, as well as the recent death of his father, Jorge Messi.
Messi’s glittering career with Argentina includes a 2022 World Cup title, two Copa América trophies, and multiple individual honors, including Golden Ball awards at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups. He also guided Argentina to World Cup runner-up finishes in 2014 and 2026.
“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,” Messi wrote on Instagram. “It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come. Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.”
Widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players ever, Messi leaves behind a legendary career filled with Ballon d’Or awards, Champions League titles, and a long-awaited World Cup victory with Argentina. Click through the following gallery to revisit some of the defining moments of his remarkable journey.