Thank you, Messi: FIFA president, Angel Di Maria pay glowing tributes to the ‘GOAT’

Lionel Messi, the 39-year-old Argentine football legend known as the GOAT, announced his retirement from international football on August 31, 2026, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, who captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and reached another final in 2026, shared the emotional news on Instagram, calling it "a decision that hurts the soul." His retirement has sparked widespread tributes from global football figures, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino and teammate Angel Di Maria.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino led the global outpouring of praise for Messi, highlighting his unparalleled contribution to football. "You are retiring from international football as a FIFA World Cup champion and as one of the greatest players our sport has ever seen," Infantino said in a tribute. "I wish you all the best." His remarks underscore Messi’s status as one of the most decorated players in history, with over two decades of dominance at both club and international levels.

Former Argentina forward Angel Di Maria, who played alongside Messi in the national team, shared a deeply personal tribute. "It’s so hard to read that you’re retiring; we won’t be seeing you wearing the sky blue and white colours anymore," Di Maria wrote. He reflected on being fortunate to witness and share in Messi’s extraordinary career, including Argentina’s triumph in the 2022 World Cup. "All I know is that I was born in the right century to be able to witness you play, relish your performances and, on top of that, share all those years with you in the national team," Di Maria said. "To see you fulfill your dreams, and your greatest dream of all – to become world champion. Thank you so much for everything; you’re a legend and the greatest of all time."

Messi’s retirement marks the end of an era in football, capping a career that spanned over 20 years and included numerous accolades such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup, multiple Copa América titles, and a record eight Ballon d’Or awards. His announcement has resonated deeply across the football community, with fans and players alike expressing gratitude for his unparalleled skill, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game. The global football governing body FIFA and Argentina’s football federation AFA are expected to honor Messi in the coming weeks, reflecting his immense impact on the sport.

As the football world bids farewell to one of its greatest icons, Messi’s legacy continues to inspire future generations. His retirement coincides with a moment of reflection for Argentina’s national team, which will now begin a new chapter without one of its most iconic figures.

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