David Beckham has hailed Lionel Messi’s remarkable career, saying the Argentina captain’s “legacy will live forever” following his decision to retire from international football.
Messi announced on Monday that he had ended his illustrious career with Argentina after making 207 appearances and scoring 125 goals for the national team.
The 39-year-old’s international career included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His final appearance for Argentina came in the country’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July.
Messi’s outstanding performances for both Argentina and Barcelona cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Beckham, a former England captain, has had a unique perspective on Messi’s career, having faced him as a player and later becoming co-owner of Inter Miami, where the Argentine currently plays.
Reflecting on Messi’s retirement, Beckham paid tribute to the forward in a post on Instagram on Tuesday.
“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,” Beckham wrote.
“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.”
