Messi’s Potential Farewell to Argentina on September 4, Ronaldo Sends Best Wishes
Football fans worldwide are bracing for an emotional moment as reports indicate that September 4, 2025, could mark Lionel Messi’s final appearance for Argentina in a World Cup qualifier against Venezuela in Buenos Aires. According to reliable sources, including journalist Fabrizio Romano and posts on X like @AlbicelesteTalk, the 38-year-old Inter Miami star plans to retire from international duty after this match. In a touching gesture, Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s long-time rival, sent heartfelt wishes, stating, “We had an incredible battle over the years, always with respect. I wish you the best, Leo, in whatever comes next.”
Messi’s international career is nothing short of legendary, with 112 goals in 192 appearances, a 2008 Olympic gold medal, the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 World Cup, which ended Argentina’s 28-year trophy drought. However, recurring injuries, including a recent adductor issue that sidelined him for qualifiers in March 2025, have taken a toll. Sources cited by ESPN suggest Messi’s decision is driven by a desire to preserve his health for club commitments with Inter Miami and to spend more time with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. The September 4 match at the Estadio Monumental is expected to be a poignant farewell, likely his last competitive game on Argentine soil.
Ronaldo, now 40 and thriving with Al Nassr, took to Instagram to honor Messi, writing, “We had moments where we pushed each other to the limit, but always with mutual admiration. You’re a legend, and football will always remember you.” The message, posted on August 20, 2025, resonated with fans, with one X user commenting, “Ronaldo showing class, saluting Messi’s farewell” (@FootballVibes). The rivalry between the two, which spans over a decade and includes 13 combined Ballon d’Or awards, has defined modern football, making Ronaldo’s tribute particularly significant.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is reportedly planning a grand tribute for Messi, with fans expected to pack the stadium to celebrate their greatest-ever player. The match’s significance is heightened by the lack of confirmed home qualifiers for Argentina in 2025, per the South American qualifying schedule. Messi, who has excelled in the MLS with 12 goals in 14 matches this season, may transition to a non-playing role for the 2026 World Cup, possibly as an ambassador, according to Sports Illustrated.
As the football world prepares to bid farewell to Messi’s international career, Ronaldo’s words encapsulate the respect between two icons. The September 4 game promises to be a historic moment, filled with gratitude for Messi’s unparalleled contributions to Argentina and the sport.
