Lionel Messi confirmed his retirement from the Argentina national team at age 39, closing a historic international career spanning more than 200 matches and 125 goals, according to reports from multiple international sports outlets.
The announcement triggered an immediate wave of global tributes across football and professional sports leagues. Among them, the Golden State Warriors and the NBA recognized the historic milestone following Argentina’s recent tournament cycles, while teammates, clubs, and figures from across the soccer world honored the forward’s legacy.
A Definitive Farewell to the Albiceleste
Messi formally concluded his tenure with the senior national team after leading Argentina through more than two decades of international competition. Reflecting on the physical and emotional toll of his career, the captain offered a straightforward assessment of his departure.
https://x.com/warriors/status/2094480681376403935
“Me vacié, ya no tengo más para dar y aparte vienen chicos muy grandes atrás que merecen estar,” Messi explained, according to coverage of his retirement announcement.
Longtime teammate Ángel Di María, who shared nearly two decades of national team duty alongside Messi, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media emphasizing the captain’s profound impact.
“Vamos a estarte agradecidos toda la vida por ser argentino, por haber llevado a la Argentina a lo alto del mundo,” Di María wrote on Instagram, praising Messi’s choice to represent Argentina despite holding the option to play for Spain. Di María added a definitive closing remark: “Gracias capitán. Gracias por todo. El mejor de la historia.”
Teammates and National Clubs Pay Tribute
Midfielder Leandro Paredes, a core member of the 2022 World Cup-winning roster in Qatar, also expressed gratitude on social media following the confirmation of Messi’s retirement.
“Gracias por absolutamente todo. Sos y serás siempre el más grande de todos. Te amamos capitán,” Paredes published.
Rodrigo de Paul, who played alongside Messi both with the national squad and at Inter Miami, highlighted his teammate’s leadership both on and off the pitch. De Paul emphasized Messi’s dedication not only to his fellow players, but to every staff member within the Argentine Football Association framework.
https://x.com/NBALatam/status/2094500470387540353
“Solo gracias, el más grande de toda la historia,” De Paul wrote.
Enzo Fernández recalled his initial aspirations of sharing a pitch with his idol, noting how the veteran forward welcomed younger players into the group from day one. Additional tributes arrived from defenders Nicolás Tagliafico and Lisandro Martínez, as well as forward Lautaro Martínez, who underscored that Messi’s influence extended far beyond raw statistics like goals, assists, and trophies.
Domestically, Argentine powerhouse clubs joined the recognition. Boca Juniors released a video featuring memorable moments of Messi at La Bombonera, while River Plate shared an image of a supporter wearing the iconic number 10 jersey at the Estadio Monumental.
Global Recognition Beyond Football
The reach of Messi’s international farewell extended well outside the soccer pitch. The NBA and the Golden State Warriors joined international sports institutions in honoring the forward’s career achievements following his official exit from the Albiceleste.
The recognition highlights a career that transformed modern sport, culminating in over 200 international appearances and cementing a legacy that spans multiple disciplines and continents.
