Lionel Messi Retires from International Football

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina’s national team after a 20-year career spanning 207 appearances and 125 goals. He retires as Argentina’s most-capped and highest-scoring player, having led the side to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima. Despite early setbacks including the 2014 World Cup final loss and consecutive Copa América defeats, Messi’s later years brought unprecedented success, cementing his legacy as one of football’s greatest.