Lionel Messi says the “pain is enormous” and that it will “take time to heal” after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final.
Ferran Torres’ extra-time strike ensured Spain were crowned world champions for a second time, ending Argentina’s defense of the title won in 2022.
Messi has lost two World Cup finals since Argentina lost 1-0 to Germany in 2014.
At 39, Messi is unlikely to feature in the 2030 tournament, although he has yet to clarify his international future.
“The pain is enormous and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold on to all the good things,” Messi wrote on social networks.
“We turned the matches around thanks to giving it our all – moments that will forever remain in our memories – and the support of the entire country, which, combined with the hard work and effort of this group, put us back among the world’s elite.
“It’s difficult to fully appreciate our achievement now, but this group reached the World Cup finals twice in a row.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message. We managed to come together as a country again and stand together, sharing great pride in being Argentine.
“I also want to congratulate Spain for winning the championship.”
Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached the final for the third time in the last four World Cups.
He played a key role in his side coming from behind to beat Egypt and England in the knockout stages, but were unable to overcome Spain, who conceded one goal throughout the tournament.
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was shown a second yellow card in the second half for a late challenge on Pau Kubarsi, wrote on social media that he and his teammates “defended these colors with pride, humility and devotion.”
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate altercations between both groups of players at the full-time whistle.
“For many years this group represented us best. She teaches that competition is not just about winning; it means giving everything you have for the jersey and never giving up,” added Fernandez.