Messi’s legacy will ‘live forever’, says Beckham

David Beckham hailed Lionel Messi's legacy as eternal following the Argentine legend's announcement of retirement from international football. Messi disclosed on Monday that he was concluding his illustrious career with Argentina after an impressive 207 appearances and 125 goals. The 39-year-old had clinched the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and his final match for his nation was Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain in July.

Messi's prowess for Argentina and Barcelona secured him a spot among the world's greatest players. Former England captain Beckham, who faced Messi both as an adversary and collaborator through his co-ownership of Inter Miami, reflected on the moment to appreciate the greatness witnessed. Beckham penned, "Leo, you have been a credit to yourself, your family, your friends and your country."

He further added, "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."