{
  "id": 4753449,
  "title": "Tributes to 'eternal' Messi on Argentina retirement",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/01/tributes-to-eternal-messi-on-argentina-retirement",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-01T00:47:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/football/2026/09/1523134/tributes-eternal-messi-argentina-retirement"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The football world mourned the retirement of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi from the national team on Monday. Fans and teammates alike expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of a beloved figure who brought joy and inspiration to millions. Former teammate Angel Di Maria lamented that they would no longer see Messi wearing the sky blue and white jersey. Di Maria emphasized that he was fortunate to have witnessed Messi's brilliance during their time together on the national team. His teammate Rodrigo De Paul expressed his gratitude, calling Messi the greatest of all time and praising him for bringing immeasurable happiness. De Paul described Messi as eternal. His fellow Inter Miami teammate Cristian Romero conveyed his love, admiration, and eternal gratitude for Messi's contributions to the sport and his country. The Argentine national team also extended their eternal thanks to Messi, vowing to love him until the end of their days. Argentine President Javier Milei praised Messi's incredible talent and impact. FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Messi on an extraordinary international career that had inspired millions and redefined the beautiful game. Messi's wife Antonela Roccuzzo shared her privilege of being by his side on this journey and expressed her infinite love for him, acknowledging that he deserved this story and so much more.",
  "summary": "BUENOS AIRES: The football world on Monday paid homage to Argentine superstar Lionel Messi after his decision to retire from the national team.",
  "key_points": [
    "Argentine superstar Lionel Messi retires from national team",
    "Fans, teammates express sorrow over Messi's loss",
    "Messi described as eternal, greatest of all time"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The outpouring of tributes to Messi on his Argentina retirement confirms his lasting impact on the sport and his country, and cements his status as a beloved and inspirational figure.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}