Lionel Messi has spoken publicly for the first time since Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, admitting the loss will take
time to overcome while expressing pride in his team's remarkable run to a second consecutive World Cup final.
The Argentina captain shared an emotional message on Instagram a day after Ferran Torres' extra-time winner ended La Albiceleste's hopes of retaining the world title in New Jersey.
Lionel Messi admits World Cup final defeat 'will take time to heal'
Reflecting on Argentina's heartbreaking defeat, Messi acknowledged the pain of falling short but said the squad should also be proud of what it achieved during the tournament.
"The pain is immense, and it will take time for this wound to heal. "
The 39-year-old urged supporters to remember Argentina's resilience throughout the competition, having produced memorable comeback victories over Egypt in the Round of 16 and England in the semi-finals.
"But I also hold on to all the good. The matches we turned around, giving our all, matches that will forever remain in our memories, the support of an entire country that, together with the hard work and effort of this group, led us to be, once again, among the best in the world. "
Messi also highlighted the significance of reaching back-to-back World Cup finals.
"Today it's hard to fully appreciate what we accomplished, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals. "
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner concluded by thanking Argentina's supporters before congratulating Spain on lifting the trophy.
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and every message. Once again, we managed to unite as a country and be together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentinian. I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship. "
Argentina's title defence came to an end after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, handing Spain their second FIFA World Cup title.
Antonela Roccuzzo pens emotional tribute to Lionel Messi
While Messi reflected on the defeat, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo shared an emotional message celebrating his career and character, amid growing speculation over whether the final could prove to be his last World Cup appearance.
Posting images of an emotional Messi after the final, Roccuzzo praised her husband's resilience and determination.
"You will always be the best, @leomessi. Not just because of your talent, but because you have never stopped being yourself. "
She continued by highlighting the qualities that have defined Messi throughout his career.
"Because no matter what happens, you never give up; you always fight to the very end and give it your all until the final second. That strength, that mindset, and the way you pick yourself up time and time again are what make you unique. "
Roccuzzo added that Messi remains an inspiration both to their family and millions around the world.
"Thank you for showing us every day that true success is built through hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance-without ever losing sight of who you really are. You are the best example for our children and an inspiration to millions of people. I admire you more than words can express, and I feel immensely proud to walk through life by your side. "
Is this the end of Messi's World Cup career?
Messi finished the 2026 FIFA World Cup with eight goals as Argentina reached a second successive final following their triumph four years earlier.
The Inter Miami star has not confirmed whether he will continue his international career, but uncertainty surrounds his future given he would be 43 years old by the time the 2030 World Cup begins.
For now, Messi has chosen to focus not on retirement speculation, but on thanking Argentina's supporters and acknowledging the achievement of leading his country to another World Cup final, even if it ended in heartbreak.
