Messi retires from Argentina after father's death, four-goal Miami show

Lionel Messi has retired from international football. The 39-year-old Argentine icon announced his decision on Monday, 31 August 2026, ending a record-breaking 21-year career with his national team. This follows a period of personal reflection after the death of his father, Jorge, earlier in August and comes just days after he scored four goals for Inter Miami in a Major League Soccer match.

Why did Messi decide to retire now?

Messi posted an emotional handwritten farewell on Instagram, stating the decision hurt him deeply. He directly linked it to the recent passing of his father, saying he was unsure how to carry on. In his statement, he wrote, "Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply." He emphasized that he always gave his all for the Argentina shirt, during the recent trophy-laden years and throughout his entire career.

How did Argentina and the football world react?

The reaction from Argentina was immediate and profound. Teammates like Cristian Romero and Angel di Maria posted heartfelt messages. Di Maria, who played with Messi at Paris St-Germain and for Argentina, described him as "the greatest of all time," adding he was born in the right century to witness him. In Buenos Aires, a public art installation featured a red telephone where passersby could leave voice messages for Messi. One 86-year-old caller said, "You will be in my heart until I die."

Football legends also paid tribute. Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham said Messi's "legacy will live forever" and that he inspired millions of children worldwide. Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who frequently managed against Messi between 2010 and 2013, commented that the next Copa America and World Cup "won't be the same" without him.

What did Messi achieve for Argentina?

Messi's international career is defined by unprecedented success and longevity. He is Argentina's all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, with 125 goals in 207 appearances. He captained the team to victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a triumph that many felt settled the debate about football's greatest player. He also led Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final and won two Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.

His club career, spanning Barcelona, Paris St-Germain, and Inter Miami, has seen him score a combined 921 goals.

Is he still playing club football?

Absolutely. Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028 and shows no signs of slowing down. Just days before his international retirement announcement, he delivered a masterclass for his club. On the weekend of 30-31 August 2026, he scored four goals in a dominant performance against CF Montreal. The third goal was described as particularly magical, a demonstration that his genius continues to shine in MLS.

• KEY TAKEAWAYS: Messi retires as Argentina's record scorer and appearance holder. His decision follows his father's death and a four-goal club performance. Tributes have poured in from teammates, rivals, and a grateful nation. He continues to play for Inter Miami.

While the Argentina chapter is closed, the final acts of Lionel Messi's legendary playing career are still being written.