Lionel Messi said on Monday he is retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.
Following the death of his father Jorge in August, Messi had said he had “serious doubts” about continuing to play football of any sort for “much longer”.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi, 39, wrote on Instagram.
In the post, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner notes that he wrote these words two days after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19.
“After what happened with my father, I am more convinced than ever,” he added.
