Lionel Messi retires from international soccer after twenty years with Argentina

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on Monday, ending a career that spanned two decades. The decision follows Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final last month, a match in which Messi played all 120 minutes. Holding 207 caps and 125 goals, Messi exits as Argentina's all-time leader in both categories. His international tenure included winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles. Messi cited the recent death of his father, Jorge, as a factor in his choice to step away from international play. He remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028 and will continue his club career in Major League Soccer.

• 4:52 PMCBS Sports — Footy Fix: Lionel Messi says goodbye to Argentina and retires from international soccer