Add The New York Post on Google Lionel Messi is saying goodbye.
The World Cup’s all-time leading scorer officially announced his retirement from international play via Instagram on Monday, Aug. 31.
That means “the Atomic Flea” will no longer compete for Argentina after taking part in six World Cups — and winning one in 2022 — dating back to 2006.
“It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come,” Messi wrote. “I swear to you that I always gave it my all — not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.”
His handwritten note concluded with the addendum “*I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad [Editor’s Note: Messi’s father, Jorge, passed away at 68 on Aug. 8], I am even more convinced than before.”
However, despite his decision to hang up his cleats for Argentina, the 39-year-old has approximately 2.5 years remaining on his contract with his MLS team, Inter Miami CF, aka The Herons.
He’ll play with the club through December 2028.
As of now, Messi has 13 matches remaining from September through November before the postseason gets underway.
And, while he doesn’t have any in New York proper, the legendary forward will get close when he takes on Emil Forsberg’s New York Red Bulls at Harrison, NJ’s Sports Illustrated Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Make sure to use promo code NYPOST10 for $10 off purchases over $250 at checkout (Editor’s Note: this discount is only valid for users’ first purchase on SeatGeek).
Prior to the shocking news of his retirement, Messi scored four goals and dished an assist in a 7-1 win over CF Montréal on Saturday, Aug. 29.
For more information, our team has everything you need to know and more about how to see Lionel Messi with Inter Miami CF below.
A complete calendar including all opponents, venues, game dates and links to buy tickets can be found here:
A complete English translation of Lionel Messi’s retirement announcement on social media can be seen below.
After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the Argentina national team…
“It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all — not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
“Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here.
“Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside (through the good times and the bad — especially the bad).
“Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this journey — so beautiful, yet so difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
“I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you — alongside my teammates — moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
“*I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before.”
Hoping to catch a concert or three this year, too?
Here are just five huge acts headed to the City That Never Sleeps (and the Garden State) these next few months.
Who else is out and about in the near future? Take a look at this comprehensive list of all the biggest concert tours in 2026 to find the show for you.
This article was written by Matt Levy, New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed a Bruce Springsteen concert and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
