At age 39, Lionel Messi has officially retired from international soccer, stepping away from Argentina's national team less than two months after helping lead his country to a World Cup final.
Messi broke the news to fans via a post on Instagram, showcasing a handheld journal he'd written regarding his decision.
In a footnote on the post, Messi mentions that he had written that note on July 21, just two days after the World Cup had ended.
He added, "Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before."
Messi's father, Jorge, died on Aug. 8 at the age of 68.
Messi said the decision to retire from the Argentina national team hurts. That said, he also wrote, "I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always
gave it my all."
Messi's retirement has MLS fans biting their nails wondering what it means for his future with Inter Miami. But they can rest easy knowing that Messi's decision will not affect his play with the MLS club.
Messi's future with Inter Miami
Messi signed a three-year extension with the club in Oct. 2025 and will remain under contract with the club through Dec. 2028.
The end of Messi's international career could theoretically prolong his club career. Ending his journey with Argentina means Messi won't travel and play matches during international breaks. Messi's only priority from now until the end of his career, it seems, will be Inter Miami.
Messi's stats with Argentina
Messi retires from his national team having accomplished practically everything a player could want over an international career.
A two-time Copa America winner, gold medalist, FIFA World Cup champion and two-time FIFA World Cup finalist, Messi tallied 125 goals and 68 assists across 207 games.
Messi has also starred for Inter Miami. Despite his age, he has recorded 98 goals and 54 assists with the Herons in just 111 games. He has been named MLS MVP in back-to-back seasons.
Even approaching 40, Messi's legacy in soccer will likely to continue to grow.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What does Messi retiring from international soccer mean for MLS?
