Lionel Messi Retires from the Argentina National Team, Ronaldo Pays Tribute to His Rival

The long-running rivalry between two football megastars, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi on the global World Football stage paused for a moment as one chapter of this historic duel officially concluded. Ronaldo paid public tribute to Messi after La Pulga brought his international career with the Argentina National Team to an end.

Messi closed out his career with Argentina following his final match against Benin at the Monumental Stadium, Buenos Aires on Tuesday.

During that fixture, Messi scored one goal and registered two assists to guide Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Benin, in front of an attendance exceeding 85,000 spectators.

This match served as Messi's official farewell, wrapping up 21 years representing the Albiceleste. The 39-year-old footballer shared his feelings via a post on his personal Instagram account.

“Yesterday was my final match. I already miss the blue and white jersey, but I know this was the right decision,” Messi stated, as quoted on Thursday, 8 August 2026.

Messi acknowledged that his journey with Argentina was not an easy one; he went through many difficult periods before finally lifting the sport's most prestigious trophies. Yet every phase became an integral part of his career legacy.

In his farewell message, Messi also honoured Argentine Football Legend Diego Maradona, noting that Maradona had carried Argentina to the position the nation deserved.

“As I have always said, I know he kept helping us every step of the way - both when he was here with us, and now from heaven,” he added.

Additionally, Messi expressed gratitude to every club that formed part of his professional career, explaining that support from these clubs allowed him to honour national team call-ups consistently for so many years.

Throughout his time representing Argentina, Messi fulfilled nearly every major ambition he held. He led his nation to victory at the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 World Cup, and 2024 Copa America.

The peak of this run came at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where Messi captained Argentina to lift the global title.

“I am grateful. I love all of you so much. I will miss you all, and I will always be thankful that you stood beside this team, and beside me all this time,” Messi said.

This farewell message quickly drew attention across the global football community, including from Cristiano Ronaldo. For over a decade, the two men have stood at the centre of endless debate over who is the Greatest Player of their generation.

With Messi now officially closing his international career, Ronaldo chose to set their long rivalry aside. He paid respect to the man who for so many years was his greatest on-pitch opponent, and one of the defining figures of modern football.

“Leo, after all these years representing your country, you have created history that will never be forgotten,” Ronaldo commented.

“I hold the deepest respect for everything you have achieved with Argentina. My regards to you.”

Ronaldo posted this message at a time he himself is facing a complicated situation with the Portugal National Team. The 41-year-old is reported to be in a public dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus, and has departed the Portugal national team training camp.

Even amid his own ongoing issues with the Portuguese setup, Ronaldo took the time to honour Messi. The two biggest rivals in World Football now find themselves at very different points in their international careers.

Messi has said his final goodbye to the Argentina National Team. Cristiano Ronaldo continues his journey with Portugal.