Messi legacy will ‘live forever’, says Beckham

LONDON, Sept 1 — David Beckham has praised Lionel Messi's "legacy" following the Argentine legend's announcement that he is retiring from international football. Messi announced he would be ending his remarkable career with Argentina after making 207 appearances and scoring 125 goals. The 39-year-old won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and played his final game for his country in Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain in July.

Messi's skill and brilliance while representing Argentina and Barcelona have cemented him as one of the greatest players in football history. Beckham, who has watched Messi play both as an opponent and as a friend as co-owner of Inter Miami, lauded the former Barcelona star in an Instagram post. "Leo, you have been a credit to yourself, your family, your friends and your country," Beckham wrote.

"Leading by example and creating inspiration for millions of children not just in Argentina but around the whole world." "Leo, you delivered the greatest gift to your country and, for that, your legacy will live forever. Congratulations on all you achieved for Argentina."