Lionel Messi was crying after losing in World Cup final

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Lionel Messi was crying after losing in World Cup final

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated Jul 20, 2026 9:11 AM ET

Lionel Messi was in tears after Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday. The 39-year-old was playing in his sixth World Cup, which is the most ever for a male player. He had scored eight goals during the World Cup for Argentina, but he was held scoreless, as Spain controlled the pitch for most of the game, and took advantage of a red card to score in extra time.

Messi had led Argentina to its second straight final, and was no doubt crushed by the defeat. He got teary eyed and cried after receiving his silver medal.

Messi is visibly emotional after playing in what could be his final FIFA World Cup match.

If this is it, thank you Leo pic.twitter.com/CZfteurfH1
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026

Messi likely cried in part because of the disappointment over his team’s loss in the final. He also likely cried because of the uncertainty over his future; he knew that may have been his last World Cup. He’s played in six of them and has set many World Cup records thanks to his excellent play and longevity.

If Messi decides to return for another World Cup, he’ll have to wait until 2030, when he will be turning 43 years old. He may retire by then, which likely explains his emotions.

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