On Sunday, Lionel Messi was overcome with emotion during the award ceremony following the 2026 World Cup final. Argentina suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, marking the end of the Argentine captain's World Cup journey.
Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, securing Spain's victory and leaving Argentina as runners-up. This dashed the hopes of a consecutive championship for the Albiceleste, which they had been pursuing since their triumph in Qatar 2022.
In the moments following the final whistle, Messi remained seated on the grass, appearing lost in thought and struggling to display any emotion. He was the first in line to receive his silver medal, presented by the President of the United States, Donald Trump.
The breaking point came as he stepped off the stage and turned to face the Argentine fans. Surrounded by the chants and support of the crowd, the star from Rosario broke down in tears, visibly moved. By his side was Rodrigo De Paul, who also shed tears, as he had throughout much of the tournament.
After a few moments and once Spain had lifted the trophy, Messi retreated to the locker room.
Messi's Final World Cup Journey
This World Cup marked Messi's sixth and final appearance with the Argentine national team, as confirmed by the player himself before the tournament. At 39 years old, he concluded his World Cup career with an unprecedented legacy: becoming the all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup history with a total of 18 goals across six tournaments.
During this tournament, he also achieved his first World Cup hat-trick on June 16 against Algeria and guided Argentina to the final with a crucial assist to Lautaro Martínez in the semi-final against England. Throughout the tournament, he wore special boots called "El último tango," symbolizing his farewell.
Hours before the final, Messi shared an emotional message on Instagram, anticipating the significance of the moment: "No one can erase this history." In that same post, he wrote, "The best part... was never just the titles, but the entire journey. Sharing every day with this group."
The runner-up of the 2026 World Cup will receive $33 million in prize money, compared to the $50 million awarded to Spain as champions.
This wasn't the first time Messi had been seen in tears during a major tournament. He also cried after Argentina's comeback against Egypt in the group stage of this World Cup, and in the 2024 Copa América, he ended the final injured and in tears, although Argentina emerged victorious 1-0. Sunday's tears, however, marked the definitive farewell, the closing of a World Cup story that, as he wrote, "we will never forget."
Frequently Asked Questions About Messi's Final World Cup
What was the result of the 2026 World Cup final?
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final match, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal in extra time.
How many goals did Messi score in World Cup history?
Lionel Messi scored a total of 18 goals across his six World Cup appearances, making him the all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup history.
What special footwear did Messi wear during the tournament?
Messi wore special boots called "El último tango," which were designed to symbolize his farewell to the World Cup.