Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international soccer on Monday after two decades representing Argentina. The 39-year-old star said the decision was painful, but he understood that the time had come.
Messi has played in a record-tying six World Cups and won the 2022 tournament with Argentina. He will continue playing for Inter Miami, where he recently scored four goals in a 7-1 victory over CF Montreal.
Messi had also briefly retired from international football in 2016 before returning and eventually leading Argentina to major titles.
