Miami, Florida - Lionel Messi said on Monday he is retiring from international soccer after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.

"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," the 39-year-old athlete wrote on Instagram, in Spanish.

"I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt," he added.

Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory by winning the 2022 final against France in a penalty shootout in Doha, but his side lost 1-0 to Spain in the 2026 final.

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"Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply," he added in his message.

"I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the National Team. I've given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve their chance.

Following the death of his father Jorge in August, Messi admitted he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play soccer of any sort for "much longer".

Messi's contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season.