Argentina's great Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football. He said it was "sad" to make the decision, but he realized "the time is right".
The 39-year-old Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He has scored 125 goals in 207 matches, making him the highest goalscorer and most capped player for the country.
In a statement on Instagram, Messi said he had given his all for the national team, but now had "nothing left to give". "After so much time and thinking about it after the final, I want to inform everyone that I am retiring from the national team," he said.
"It was a decision that saddened me and still hurts deep inside, but I think it's the right time. I swear I always gave it my all, not just in those few years when we won everything, but even before that. I always fought for this jersey and gave my all, to make you happy and proud to be Argentine through football.
There is not much time left and different chapters of life are coming to an end. This is a chapter that makes me very sad. I love being part of the national team, always have and always will. I have given my all and now I have nothing left to give. Also, there are a lot of great young players coming through who deserve to be here."
Thank you for all the love over these 20 years. I will miss hearing your voice from the field. Now I'll be one of you, always an outside support—in good times and even more so in bad times.
"Thank you to my family for always being there and walking with me on this beautiful but difficult journey. Thank you to all the coaches, teammates and directors with whom I had the opportunity to embark on this journey. I am taking with me unforgettable memories and moments. I'm leaving with peace and pride, knowing that I, along with my colleagues, gave you the moments we've only ever dreamed of. It was wonderful to experience it all with you. I love you all! Thank God for making me Argentine.”
"Wa mos Argentina!" "I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened to my father, I am more confident in my decision than ever.