Thank you, Messi: FIFA president, Angel Di Maria pay glowing tributes to the ‘GOAT’
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football following a storied career that included a 2022 World Cup victory. The announcement has prompted tributes from FIFA leadership and fellow Argentine teammates.
Why it matters
Messi is widely considered one of the greatest athletes in history, and his retirement marks the end of a significant era in global football.
Lionel Messi on Monday (August 31, 2026) announced his retirement from international football , leading to an outpouring of tribute and farewell messages to the football legend who is often called the GOAT (Greatest of All Time).
The 39-year-old Argentina footballer, who captained his team to World Cup glory in 2022 and another final in 2026, made the announcement on Instagram, describing it as “a decision that hurts the soul.”
FIFA president Gianni Infantino and fellow Argentinian players are among those who have dedicated glowing tributes to the sporting icon. Here’s a look at the reactions to Messi’s retirement:
FIFA president Gianni Infantino thanked Messi for bringing so much joy to millions of football fans. “You are retiring from international football as a FIFA World Cup champion and as one of the greatest players our sport has ever seen. I wish you all the best,” he said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in