Messi’s 10 most iconic moments as Argentina legend retires from int'l football
Lionel Messi has decided to retire from international football at 39, marking the end of an extraordinary era for Argentina. After an impressive career spanning nearly two decades, Messi guided his national team to triumph in the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, as well as reaching the final of the 2026 World Cup. His departure signifies a deeply emotional farewell to a remarkable…
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, concluding a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades for Argentina. Over six World Cups, he secured two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Leading Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, Messi was heartbroken after their 0-1 defeat to Spain.
His international journey was not always smooth; there were setbacks like lost finals and even a brief retirement in 2016. However, the 2021 Copa America win and the 2022 and 2024 Copa Americas marked the high points of his legacy. Messi revealed he penned his retirement statement on July 21, two days after the 2026 defeat, but waited until his father's serious health issue to break the news.
His international career, punctuated by iconic moments like his World Cup debut, breaking scoring records, and leading Argentina to victory, cemented his status as a football legend.
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