Argentina legend Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football - 'I have nothing left to give'

Messi, who scored eight goals and registered four assists at this summer's World Cup, announced his decision on social media.

In the post, he referenced the death of his father, Jorge, who passed away aged 68 on August 8.

"After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the Argentina national team," Messi wrote.

"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deep down - but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all - not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.

"Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. 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 to be here.

"Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I'll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside [through the good times and the bad - especially the bad].

"Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this journey - so beautiful, yet so difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I've shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.

"I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you - alongside my team-mates - moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you.

"Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.

"Let's go, Argentina.

"*I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before."

Messi briefly held the record for the most goals scored at the World Cup with 21, but he was overtaken by France's Kylian Mbappe in North America.

He is Argentina's record goalscorer, having netted 125 times for his country, and most-capped player with 207 appearances.

Messi made his Argentina debut as a teenager in 2005, replacing Lisandro Lopez in a friendly against Hungary.

Playing alongside the likes of Hernan Crespo, Maxi Rodriguez and Gabriel Heinze, he was sent off in his first international match.

He went on to enjoy a remarkable two-decade career for the national team, despite announcing his retirement in 2016 after three consecutive defeats in major finals, including the 2014 World Cup.

Messi has scored 18 goals in 19 Major League Soccer games for Inter Miami this season, putting four past CF Montreal in his last match.

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