The decision comes shortly after his father, Jorge Messi, died on August 7, 2024, following a brief illness, a loss that Messi described as a turning point.

In his resignation post, Messi wrote that 'the time had come' and that he felt he had nothing more to give, adding that 'there are some very talented young players coming through who deserve their chance.'

Messi leaves the squad as its captain, the player who lifted the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, added a 2024 Copa America title, and now plays club football for Inter Miami.

His retirement highlights how personal grief and a sense of career completion can influence even the most celebrated athletes, while also giving Argentina a chance to rebuild with fresh faces.