Buenos Aires, Argentina Sep 1, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - The G.O.A.T of football, Lionel Messi, has retired from Argentina after serving and pushing his national team for years. The global football star has shared his retirement statement through handwritten notes that felt deeply emotional and an honest reveal from the heart. After 21 years of international duty, the legend retires at the age of 39, and he will be forever a part of the debate over whether he is better than Cristiano Ronaldo or not. Messi is the only player who has pushed Argentina in the Copa America and FIFA World Cup finals more than any player in the country.
Sharing his thoughts and experiences through handwritten notes also shows that he is one of the last generations of players who studied with pen and paper in school. The GOAT wrote, "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I realize that the time has come,” and further added, "I swear to you that I always gave my all not just in recent years. Years when we won everything, but before that too and I always fought hard and gave my all for this shirt, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.”
Messi also said, "There's not much time left and chapters are coming to a close; this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved and will always love being a part of the national team. I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my teammates, moments we could only have dreamed of." It was only a 318-word post, yet it was more impactful and felt deeply emotional, like pages from his journal. Messi has not forgotten the past criticisms or the constant comparison with Maradona as an Argentinian. However, He will always be one of the best Argentine players in the history of football.
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