The Argentina star is 39 years old now, and looks like he may have played his last World Cup game
Argentina star Lionel Messi has been pictured in bawling in the aftermath of the World Cup final after the South Americans lost 1-0 to Spain.
In a tight game, a Ferran Torres goal in extra time was enough to win Spain’s second World Cup title. The match in New Jersey also saw Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez – who scored to break English hearts in the semi-final – sent off for a reckless challenge.
After the referee blew the final whistle, the scene descended into a fracas as Argentina’s Leandro Paredes appeared to shove Spain’s Gavi. Once order had been restored, Messi was shown crying in front of his adoring fans, reports The Express.
Individual awards were handed out after full-time, with Manchester City’s midfield ace Rodri announced as the Player of the Tournament. Pau Curbasi was named the Young Player of the Tournament, and Joan Garcia picked up his golden glove award for best goalkeeper.
Argentina were then given a guard of honour by Luis de la Fuente’s Spain, as they made their way to the podium to pick up their runner-up medals. After a handshake from Gianni Infantino and US President, Donald, Trump, Messi made his way over to the far side of the pitch to thank travelling fans from his home nation.
And as he did so, he couldn’t hold back the tears, spotted streaming in emotion as the reality that this summer could have marked his final World Cup hit home.
Some have speculated this was a major hint that his time with the Argentina national team has drawn to a close. At 39, there was speculation that the 2026 World Cup would be his last dance in international football.
Sunday was Messi’s third World Cup final, and his second runners-up medal. In 2014, he also lost in extra time, to Germany, but made amends four years ago with a memorable penalty shoot-out win over France in Qatar.