Lionel Messi has admitted that his international career is drawing to a close after helping Argentina reach the Copa América final. The 37-year-old forward scored in the 2-0 semi-final win over Canada and spoke about cherishing his remaining time with the national team.
“I am aware that these are the last few battles, that is why I am enjoying it very much,” Messi said after the match. “Let's enjoy everything that we are living and enjoying as a national team. It is not easy to get to another final.”
Messi, who turned 37 last month, acknowledged that performing consistently is becoming increasingly difficult at this stage of his career. He described the team's run to the final as “crazy” and emphasised the challenges of the tournament, including tough opponents and difficult playing conditions.
Argentina will face either Uruguay or Colombia in the final on 14 July in Miami Gardens, Florida. A victory would see Argentina become the most successful nation in Copa América history, breaking a tie with Uruguay on 15 titles.
Messi's career with Argentina includes winning the 2022 World Cup, the 2021 Copa América, and an Olympic gold medal in 2008. He once described the Olympic gold as his most valued achievement, noting that it is a tournament one may play only once in a lifetime.
