Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from International Football: A Legacy Remembered
Messi's Farewell to International Football
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], September 1: The Chief Ministers of Telangana and Kerala, A Revanth Reddy and VD Satheeshan, expressed their sorrow following the retirement of legendary Argentine footballer Lionel Messi from international play after an illustrious two-decade career.
Messi's journey, which began in 2005 and concluded with a heartbreaking loss to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final this year, is filled with remarkable achievements and emotional moments.
Revanth, who had the honor of hosting Messi during his 'The GOAT India Tour' in Hyderabad last year, shared his sentiments on X, stating, "Dear Messi, you have captivated and inspired the entire football community. It was a privilege to share the field with you in Hyderabad. Football will never be the same without the GOAT. Farewell, and continue to inspire. #Messi."
Tributes from Fellow Leaders
Dear Messi, You have enthralled, entertained, energised and inspired the entire #football world. It was a great privilege to share a few minutes on a football turf with you in #Hyderabad
Football won’t be the same again, without the GOAT. Farewell and keep inspiring.#Messi pic.twitter.com/sQi2QpJmf6
— Revanth Reddy (@revanth_anumula) August 31, 2026
Kerala's Chief Minister Satheesan also shared a heartfelt video showcasing Messi's greatest moments, captioning it simply with "GOAT" and a heartbreak emoji.
Messi's Emotional Announcement
In a statement reported by 433, Messi expressed, "After much reflection since the final, I want to announce my retirement from the national team. This decision is painful, but I believe it is the right time."
"I have always given my all, not just in recent years when we achieved success, but throughout my career. I fought for this shirt to bring joy and pride to Argentina through football," he continued.
Messi acknowledged the emotional weight of this decision, stating, "This chapter closing hurts deeply, as I have given everything I could. Young talents are emerging who deserve their chance, and I must step aside."
A Legacy of Greatness
He expressed gratitude for the support he received over the years, saying he would now cheer for the national team as a fan. "Thank you to my family for their unwavering support throughout this beautiful yet challenging journey. I cherish the unforgettable memories and moments shared with coaches and teammates," he remarked.
Messi leaves behind a legacy as Argentina's most-capped player and top scorer, with 203 appearances and 124 goals, making him the highest goal-scorer in South American football history.
In 2022, after years of near misses, Messi finally lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy, leading Argentina to victory against France, marking their first title in 36 years.
Continued Club Career
Despite his international retirement, Messi will continue to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), where the team currently ranks fourth with 12 wins, six draws, and four losses, totaling 42 points.