Messi Retires from Argentina After 22 Years

The 39-year-old superstar will continue playing for Inter Miami in MLS but made the difficult decision to step away from the national team. Messi's retirement comes after Argentina's loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final and was delayed following the death of his father, Jorge. 'It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment,' Messi said in a statement.

Messi departs as one of the most decorated players in international soccer history, with 125 career goals (second-most ever) and 21 World Cup goals (also second-most). He led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, scoring twice in the final against France, and won two Golden Balls at the tournament. freshyourfeel.org