Lionel Messi by the numbers: Trophies, heartache and the greatest World Cup player in history

Lionel Messi, Argentina's football captain, concluded his remarkable 21-year international career with the nation's 2026 World Cup final. Despite scoring eight goals throughout the tournament, Argentina lost to Spain in the championship match. At the age of 39, Messi announced his retirement from the national team, citing his father's recent death and the emotional toll of the final loss as his reasons.

In an Instagram post, he expressed that the decision was both painful and justified, admitting that he had given his all and had no more to contribute.

Messi's international career is etched in the annals of football history for its prolific nature and productivity. With 207 appearances, he holds the record as Argentina's all-time leading appearance maker and scorer, averaging an impressive 0.60 goals per game. His achievements surpass those of many who came before him, including Diego Maradona, Gabriel Batistuta, Hernan Crespo, and Sergio Aguero.

Messi's accomplishments are further highlighted by his unprecedented eight Ballon d'Or awards, his participation in six consecutive World Cups from 2006 to 2026, and his status as one of only three players to achieve this feat.

While other players may boast a higher number of World Cup victories, Messi's longevity and exceptional ability set him apart as arguably the greatest player in World Cup history. His tally of 34 World Cup appearances is unparalleled, with a record 21 goals in these prestigious tournaments. Seven of Messi's goals came in knockout matches, and two of them were scored in the final itself.