Messi sets four World Cup records, Guinness confirms

Guinness World Records has officially recognized four historic milestones achieved by Argentina captain Lionel Messi following his record-breaking performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Austria. Messi inspired his team to a 2-0 victory, further cementing his legacy on football's biggest stage.

Messi's brace in the group stage fixture saw him break multiple records, extending his dominance. According to GWR, the four new records are: Most FIFA World Cup finals goals by a football player with 18, Most FIFA World Cup matches played by an individual with 28, Most matches won by a player at the FIFA World Cup with 18, and Most minutes played in the FIFA World Cup totaling 2,489.

"We are witnessing history," GWR stated in its assessment of Messi's latest achievements. His two goals in the match allowed him to surpass Germany's Miroslav Klose, who previously held the record with 16 World Cup goals. At 38 years old and playing in his sixth World Cup, Messi continues to redefine longevity at the highest level of international football, having debuted in the tournament in 2006.

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We are witnessing history.