Messi calls it quits on international football
Lionel Messi has retired from international football after Argentina crashed to a defeat against Chile in the final of the Copa America.
Speaking after the game where the Argentinian missed a penalty in the shootout, Messi announced the shocking news.
The five-time FIFA Player of the Year was emotional after losing 4-2 in the shootout following a goalless 120 minutes.
"For me the national team is over. I've done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion," he said.
"It's been four finals, it's not meant for me. I tried. It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn't get it, so I think it's over."
Messi's recently celebrated his birthday as he turned 29. This was La Selección's third loss in a major final since 2014 and second straight year to Chile.
Messi is now the all-time leading goalscorer for the South American side after scoring his 55th international goal in the semi-final win over the United States.