Lionel Messi, widely considered one of the greatest players in football history, has announced his retirement from international duty with Argentina. The 39-year-old forward, who made his debut for the national team in 2005, concludes a storied career that spanned 207 caps.

In a statement shared via social media, Messi acknowledged the emotional weight of his departure, stating, "It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come." He emphasized that he had "given it his all" throughout his tenure, regardless of the team's success or failure on the pitch.

Messi’s international career is highlighted by his 2022 World Cup victory and two Copa América titles. While his career was marked by significant triumphs, it also included heartbreak, such as runner-up finishes in the 2014 and 2026 World Cup finals. Sources differ slightly on the context of his final match; Al Jazeera specifically notes the 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 final as a concluding chapter, while other outlets focus primarily on the announcement itself and his overall career statistics. The announcement has drawn global attention, marking the end of an era for Argentine football.