An Era Ends as Messi Retires From Argentina National Team

Lionel Messi's Argentina career has ended with tears in front of the fans and a World Cup final defeat to Spain. The 39-year-old forward announced his retirement after more than 20 years with the national team.

Messi made the decision after Spain stopped Argentina from winning a second consecutive World Cup in July in New Jersey. Argentina lost the final, ending his hopes of adding another title to the trophy he lifted in Doha in 2022.

That 2022 final against France finally brought Messi the world title after Argentina had lost to Germany in the 2014 final in Brazil. He debuted for the national team in August 2005 and became one of its defining figures.

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It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I realize it is the right time.

"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I realize it is the right time," Messi wrote on Instagram. He said he had always given everything for the shirt and wanted to make Argentines proud through football.

Messi thanked supporters for their love over two decades and said he would now cheer from the sideline, in good times and bad. He finished his Argentina career with 207 caps and 125 goals. He continues to play for Inter Miami in North America's league.

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Thank you for all the love and support during these 20 years. I will miss hearing you all. Now I will just be one of you, cheering and supporting from the sideline, in good times and bad, even more.