Antonela Roccuzzo pays tribute to Messi after international retirement: « What a privilege »

Lionel Messi ended his international career on Monday at age 39, the day after losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain (0-1, a.e.t.) and a few weeks after his father’s death. His wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, responded publicly on Instagram immediately after the announcement.

« What pride to see you finish this chapter this way, Leo, » she wrote, before tracing a journey marked by falls and comebacks. « I saw you suffer, fall and get back up. I saw you keep going when things didn’t go as planned and always try again. » She then recalled having had « the chance » to see him « achieve his dreams and live some of the happiest days of our lives ».

The message takes on particular significance around their children, who have grown up witnessing this extraordinary trajectory. « That they saw their dad fight for what he wanted, not give up and keep believing until the end. And that afterwards, they were able to be there to see you accomplish everything and lift the World Cup. Maybe one day they will truly understand how immense your story is. »

Antonela Roccuzzo and Messi met in 1996 as children and have been together since 2009. She concludes her message with a restrained declaration of affection: « Today, they are simply proud of their dad. And I am proud of you. Of your journey, of everything you overcame and, above all, of the person behind each of these moments. What a privilege to have lived all of this by your side. We love you infinitely. »

Messi leaves the Argentina national team with two Copa America titles (2021, 2024) and one World Cup title (2022) to his name. He continues his club career at Inter Miami in MLS.