Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jul 19, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Argentina forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final against Spain at New York New Jersey Stadium.
At 39 years old, it’s entirely possible we’ve seen the last of Lionel Messi at the FIFA World Cup following Argentina’s heartbreaking loss to Spain in extra time of the final at MetLife Stadium.
After the game, both Messi and the rest of Argentina’s squad skipped the mandatory post-match media conference, drawing the ire of both fans and members of the media across the world.
Now, however, he’s taken to Instagram to speak out about the loss as well as what the experience was like of playing for his country potentially one final time.
Lionel Messi Thanks Argentina Fans For Support In Heartfelt Message After World Cup
“The pain is immense, it will take time for this wound to heal,” Messi said of the loss in the final. But I also choose to hold on to all the good things, all (the) matches we turned around by giving everything, and moments that will remain in our memories forever.
“I will always remember the support of an entire country that, together with the work and effort of this group, brought us back once again among the best teams in the world.
“Today, it is difficult to appreciate what we achieved… but this group has really reached two consecutive World Cup finals. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and every message. Once again, we managed to come together as a country and stand united, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.
“I also want to congratulate Spain on winning (the) World Cup”
While it’s unfortunate Messi and his teammates didn’t speak with the press afterward, his message on social media seems to touch all the bases.
He shared his emotions, as well as his overwhelming appreciation for fans, and congratulated Spain on their victory. It’s a classy message from one of, if not the greatest player to ever play the game.