Lionel Messi Retires from Argentina National Team at Age 39

Lionel Messi has officially retired from the Argentine national soccer team at the age of 39, marking the end of a nearly 20-year international career.

Messi announced his decision on Instagram, expressing that it was a painful choice but one he felt was necessary after dedicating himself fully to the national team. He played in six World Cups, winning the tournament in 2022 and finishing as Argentina's all-time leading scorer with 125 goals, including 21 in World Cup matches.

Despite his retirement from international play, Messi will continue his career with Inter Miami, where he recently scored four goals in a match against CF Montreal. His journey with the national team included significant highs and lows, including a brief retirement in 2016 after a Copa América final loss, but he ultimately achieved his dream of winning the World Cup.