Lionel Messi Receives Emotional Note From Wife Antonela Roccuzzo After International Retirement
Antonela Roccuzzo shared an emotional message after Lionel Messi's international retirement from Argentina on August 31, 2026. The 39-year-old's decision followed Argentina's 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final on July 19, and the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, on August 8.
The football world continues to reel from Lionel Messi's announcement of his retirement from international football, a decision that concluded his illustrious career with the Argentina national team. Adding a poignant chapter to this emotional farewell, his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, reflecting on the sacrifices, triumphs, and the deep impact of his journey on their family. Lionel Messi Retires From International Football.
Antonela Roccuzzo tribute to Lionel Messi
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Messi, 39, officially confirmed his departure from the Albiceleste on Monday, August 31, 2026, through a moving social media post. This announcement came after a period of intense reflection following Argentina's heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The decision was further influenced by the recent passing of his father and longtime confidant, Jorge Messi, on August 8, 2026.
Antonela Roccuzzo Emotional Farewell
Antonela Roccuzzo's message resonated deeply with fans globally, as she highlighted the personal toll and ultimate joy of Messi's two-decade-long international career. "How proud I am to see you close this chapter like this, @leomessi," she wrote on Instagram. Her note continued, "There were so many years, so many moments, so many joys, and also so many difficult times. I saw you suffer, fall and get back up. I saw you keep going when things weren't working out and always try again."
She emphasized the unique perspective their children gained from witnessing his journey: "And after so many years, I was also lucky enough to see you fulfill your dreams and live through some of the happiest days of our lives. You deserved this story and so much more. We love you infinitely." Antonela also acknowledged how their sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro, had grown up watching their father's dedication and perseverance.
A Legacy Unmatched
Messi's international career with Argentina spans from his debut on August 17, 2005, to his final match in the 2026 World Cup final. Over this period, he amassed an astonishing record: Lionel Messi Pens Heartfelt ‘Te Amo, Pa’ Tribute to Late Father Jorge Messi on Instagram.
- International Caps: 207
- International Goals: 125
- Assists: 68
- World Cups Played: 6 (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026)
- Major International Titles:
- FIFA World Cup: 2022
- Copa América: 2021, 2024
- CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions (Finalissima): 2022
Often considered the greatest footballer of all time, Messi leaves the international stage as Argentina's all-time leading goal scorer and most-capped player. His decision, while deeply felt by fans, signifies a transition for the 39-year-old, who will now focus solely on his club career with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, where his contract runs until the end of the 2028 season.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 01, 2026 11:02 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
