On Monday, 31 July 2024, Lionel Messi used his official Instagram account to confirm that he is retiring from international football, ending a two‑decade spell with Argentina that began in 2005. The 39‑year‑old forward announced the decision from New Delhi, where he was attending a promotional event, and explained that the idea had taken shape after the World Cup final loss to Spain and was solidified by the recent passing of his father.
Messi’s statement highlighted the emotional weight of the choice, noting that he has always given his all for the national shirt, whether during the early years of near‑misses or the later triumphs that included the 2022 World Cup and two Copa América crowns. “It was a decision that hurt, and still hurts deeply, but I understand that this is the right time,” he wrote, adding that he felt he had nothing more left to contribute on the pitch.
The Argentine legend debuted for the senior side in 2005 and amassed a record 207 caps, a figure that underscores the magnitude of his service. His journey featured the heartbreak of the 2014 World Cup final, the joy of lifting the trophy in Qatar four years later, and the disappointment of a recent defeat to Spain in July, which he cited as a turning point in his thinking.
In the Instagram post, Messi revealed that he had drafted the retirement wording on 21 July, two days after the final, but the death of his father, Jorge, prompted him to reaffirm the decision. He also pointed to the emergence of a talented new generation as a factor, saying that young players deserve the chance to write their own chapters.
Expressing gratitude, Messi thanked the fans for two decades of support and promised to remain a vocal supporter from the stands, cheering Argentina in both triumphs and setbacks. He also paid tribute to his family, coaches, teammates and federation officials for standing by him throughout a career described as “beautiful but difficult.”
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News