David Beckham has told Lionel Messi his "legacy will live forever" after the Argentine great's international retirement.
Messi announced his retirement from Argentina duty on Monday, albeit he said he had made the decision in the wake of the World Cup final.
It means Messi's final match for his country came in that contest at New York New Jersey Stadium, as Argentina succumbed to a 1-0 defeat to Spain.
Messi bows out as the World Cup's all-time leading appearance-maker, while he also has the most assists in the competition's history (12). The 39-year-old is also the record scorer in the Copa America.
And Beckham, who co-owns Inter Miami, where Messi has thrived since he joined in 2023, has paid tribute to the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
"This is the moment we get to look back on and realise how grateful we were to witness the greatness of a young kid with a dream," he wrote on Instagram.
"Leo, you have been a credit to yourself, your family, your friends and your country.
"Leading by example and creating inspiration for millions of children not just in Argentina but around the whole world.
"Leo, you delivered the greatest gift to your country and, for that, your legacy will live forever. Congratulations on all you achieved for Argentina."
jioacimrsy
0
The accolades should go to Sepp Blatter, the corrupt fraud and Infantino, the money monger.
jioacimrsy
0
Also remembered as one of the most loved men by fifa management.
You responded because you what he typed is fact. So you are the one not sleeping.
Teaaceklry
0
Don't share your stupidity and hatred here
Nozbcimoru
0
What legacy π€·πΎββοΈ
Suzaiklmoy
2
Ooh Leo, you have been a blessing to the beautiful game we all love. You have inspired so many footballers around the world. You have been inspirational to your team mates. You have achieved all the offers on the plate football has offered, your time has come. As the saying goes "the best dancer will one-time leave the stage" indeed that time has come. We are grateful for what you have done for football, be blessed.
Kibbikmno
2
the goat of the goats
Kibbikmno
3
we love you so much leo
Wazeknors
2
My GOAT
Wikadkstyz
3
yes fifa love him because he too good. who no like fine thing ππ
Patfem
3
The Lion of football that shows no mercy to the opponents...
podinptuyz
0
Also remembered as one of the most loved men by fifa management.
If that will help your idol to win world cup, well and good
malone95
4
yes GOAT forever
Hahlmnprtz
4
u won everything ,the real GOAT
Hahlmnprtz
4
the real π GOAT
Biodilmnyz
3
Fantastic great goat π€π
Butcnost
5
Leo you will forever remember in the history of football, you deserve the best,it will be hard to witness your kind,we love you Leo
Gamer15
2
Also remembered as one of the most loved men by fifa management.
Borisjr
3
We love you Leo