Heartbroken Messi Hangs Up His International Boots, Bringing Argentina Career to a Stunning End

Boasting 207 caps, 125 goals, a World Cup triumph, and two Copa América victories to his name, Lionel Messi has officially brought an end to one of the most remarkable international careers the sport has ever seen.

Stay with Sports Illustrated's live updates as the global football community responds to Messi's retirement announcement, coming just weeks after he and Argentina endured a heartbreaking defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.