Lionel Messi officially confirmed that the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar would be his final appearance in the tournament, marking the end of a storied era for the Argentine captain. After leading his national team to victory in the final against France, Messi solidified his legacy by securing the only major trophy that had previously eluded him. According to FIFA official records, the tournament served as the fifth World Cup of his career, a milestone that places him in an elite group of players to reach that mark.
Why the 2022 tournament was Messi’s final World Cup
Messi announced his decision prior to the tournament final, citing his age and the physical toll of competing at the highest level. In an interview with Argentine media outlet Diario Olé, the forward stated that he felt "very happy to be able to achieve this" and confirmed he would not participate in the 2026 edition. His decision brought a definitive close to a World Cup journey that began in 2006 in Germany. By winning the 2022 title, Messi became the first player in history to score in every round of a single World Cup tournament—the group stage, round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final.
How fans reacted to the historic win
The victory sparked massive celebrations globally, particularly in Argentina and among the diaspora in cities like Doha and Buenos Aires. The Reuters news agency reported that millions of fans took to the streets following the penalty shootout win, which ended 4-2 after a 3-3 draw in extra time. For many supporters, the win was viewed as the "final piece" of Messi’s career, often compared to the legacy of Diego Maradona. The emotional weight of the tournament was amplified by the realization that it represented the final chapter of Messi’s international tournament appearances on the world stage.
What happens next for the Argentine team
Following the 2022 success, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has shifted its focus toward the transition period for the national team. While Messi continued to play for the national side in subsequent friendlies and regional tournaments like the Copa América, the team is actively integrating younger talent to prepare for future cycles. According to the AFA official statements, the core group that supported Messi in Qatar remains a focal point for the squad’s development, though the team acknowledges the eventual necessity of playing without their long-time captain.
Key takeaways from Messi’s World Cup legacy
- Total Appearances: Messi played in five World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022).
- Final Achievement: He scored two goals in the 2022 final, becoming the first player to net goals in every stage of the tournament.
- Tournament Record: He holds the record for the most appearances in World Cup history by an individual player, surpassing Lothar Matthäus during the 2022 final.
- Retirement Status: Messi remains active in club football and international friendlies but has formally exited the World Cup tournament cycle.
The 2022 World Cup stands as a definitive conclusion to Messi’s pursuit of the sport’s most prestigious trophy, leaving a statistical legacy that remains unmatched in modern football history.