The entire soccer landscape held its breath on Monday as Lionel Messi officially announced his retirement from international duty after more than two decades of donning Argentina’s shirt.
It was a decision many saw coming in the aftermath of Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, but one that many still refused to accept. Still, in an emotional handwritten letter posted on social media, Messi bid farewell to La Albiceleste, dropping the curtain on a memorable chapter of his unparalleled career.