Soccer legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from Argentina’s national team after the recent death of his father, marking the end of a storied international career that delivered a World Cup title and inspired a nation.
Messi’s decision came in a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a handwritten message, where he cited the loss of his father, Jorge Messi, as the event that convinced him it was time to step away. “Today, after what happened with my dad, I am more convinced than ever,” Messi wrote, describing the choice as one that “hurt and still hurts to my core, but I understand that it’s the right time.”
The 39-year-old star, who scored 125 goals in 207 appearances for Argentina, led his country to its first World Cup title since 1986 and captured the Copa America in 2021. His final appearance in an Argentina shirt was at the World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, a fitting end for a player who has given everything to his country’s soccer program. Messi’s message made clear that the passing of his father, who died at age 68 following an illness, was the turning point that solidified his choice to retire from international play.
Reflecting on his journey, Messi told fans, “I swear that I always gave my all, not only in the last few years when we won everything, but also before, and I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentinian through football.” He went on to say, “There’s not much time left, and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts me a lot. I love, loved, and will always love being on the National Team. I’ve given everything; I have nothing more to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.”
Messi’s retirement closes a chapter that began with his World Cup debut in 2006 and included highs and lows: quarterfinal exits in 2006 and 2010, a heartbreaking final loss to Germany in 2014, and a brief retirement after losing to Chile in the 2016 Copa America final. But the ultimate triumph came in 2022, when he led Argentina to World Cup glory, finally delivering on years of promise and expectation.
Over nearly two decades, Messi became a symbol of Argentine pride, not just for his talent but for his commitment to the national team. Despite facing criticism and setbacks, he refused to quit after early disappointments, returning to help Argentina defeat Brazil 1, 0 in the 2021 Copa America and secure a World Cup title the following year. His achievements with Barcelona, 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues, cemented his status as a global superstar, but his greatest satisfaction came from representing Argentina on soccer’s biggest stage.
His Instagram post paid tribute to those who supported him: “Thanks to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey,” Messi wrote. He added gratitude for “each of the coaches, teammates, and managers I had the pleasure of sharing it with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.”
Messi’s departure leaves big shoes to fill, but the superstar was quick to acknowledge the next generation. “There are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there,” he wrote, signaling his belief in Argentina’s soccer future. His retirement is not just about personal grief or physical limits; it is also about making space for new talent to emerge and continue the legacy he helped build.
While Messi will continue playing at club level with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, his era with the national team has come to a close. The sense of loss among fans is matched by recognition of his contribution, a journey of resilience, loyalty, and achievement that few can rival.
The timing of Messi’s announcement is inseparable from the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, who died at age 68 following a battle with illness. The source notes that more than three weeks separated Jorge Messi’s death and his son’s public statement. Messi’s own words point to his father’s passing as the catalyst for his decision to retire.
For Messi, the moment is bittersweet. He leaves as a champion, but also as a son in mourning, closing a chapter that has meant everything to him and to millions of Argentinians around the world. The news was first reported by The New York Post.
Messi’s career shows what can be accomplished with loyalty, relentless effort, and family support, qualities that never go out of style, on or off the field.
