Milei Thanks Messi for 'Enormous Joy' After World Cup Final Loss

Argentine President Javier Milei has publicly lauded football superstar Lionel Messi, expressing deep gratitude for the player's decades-long dedication and the immense joy he has brought to the nation. Milei described Messi as a figure worthy of admiration for maintaining peak performance for over twenty years.

"He has given enormous joy to all Argentinians," Milei stated, as reported by Radio Mitre. "Moreover, he brought joy wherever he played and to all who appreciate good football." The president's comments came after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, where they lost 0-1 in extra time, failing to defend their 2022 title.

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The man who has been at the highest level in football for more than twenty years deserves admiration. Throughout his career, he has given enormous joy to all Argentinians. Moreover, he brought joy wherever he played and to all who appreciate good football.

Milei also extended his praise to the entire national team, emphasizing their unwavering effort. "No one can reproach them for anything because they left everything on the field," he said. "The result of the final cannot overshadow the enormous achievement of this group of players." He expressed infinite gratitude for their hard work and for lifting the spirits of Argentinians, demonstrating that "Argentinians never give up."

For Lionel Messi, the 2026 World Cup marked his sixth appearance in the tournament and is widely expected to be his last, given he will be 43 years old when the next World Cup is held in 2030. Messi debuted in 2006 and has played 34 World Cup matches, scoring 21 goals and providing 12 assists throughout his storied career.

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No one can reproach them for anything because they left everything on the field. The result of the final cannot overshadow the enormous achievement of this group of players. Infinite gratitude for the colossal work they have done and for how they have raised the spirit of Argentinians and shown that Argentinians never give up.