Messi retires from international football

Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentine footballer, has announced his retirement from international football. The 39-year-old, who led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, has scored 125 goals in 207 appearances for his country, making him the nation's all-time leading scorer and most-capped player. In a statement, Messi revealed that he has given everything to the national team but now has nothing left to contribute.

He expressed deep emotional pain over the decision, stating that it was a difficult time for him. Despite his tough start on the international stage, Messi achieved greatness, winning the World Cup and two Copa America titles with Argentina. He has also become the second-highest goalscorer in World Cup history, behind Kylian Mbappe.

In his farewell message, Messi expressed gratitude for the love and support he received over the past 20 years, acknowledging that he will miss cheering for his fans from the sidelines. He will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer until the end of 2028. The decision to retire was influenced by the recent loss of his father and Argentina's disappointing defeat to Spain in the 2022 World Cup final.