Messi leaves Argentina's national team after 21 years with a fortune Forbes puts at US$1.1 billion

Lionel Messi concluded his 21-year international career for Argentina on Tuesday, playing his final match against Benin in a 3-0 victory at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old captain, who has scored 126 goals for his country, set up a goal for Nicolás Otamendi and scored the third himself in the 70th minute before retiring.

Messi attributed his emotional farewell to the team to a bittersweet moment, stating, "This is surely the saddest day of my career and I will miss you." Throughout his tenure with Argentina, the star forward claimed the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2008 Olympic gold medal, and the 2005 Under-20 World Cup.

After announcing his retirement following the 2026 World Cup, Messi acknowledged that he had given his all, saying, "I emptied myself; I have nothing more to give." Off the pitch, Messi's wealth has skyrocketed, with Forbes estimating a fortune of US$1.1 billion. As of his 2026 ranking, he is the third-highest-paid athlete, earning US$140 million, half from sports and half from endorsements and business.

At Inter Miami, where he is contracted until 2028, Messi earns US$28.3 million in guaranteed compensation. He owns or co-owns five clubs across four countries and has stakes in various business ventures, including hotels, wine, fragrance lines, and real estate. Messi's business acumen continues to grow, with his holding company relocating its headquarters to Andorra in 2025.