Lionel Messi says “the pain is immense” 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 saw Spain crowned world champions for a second time, ending Argentina’s defence of the title they won in 2022.
Messi has now lost two World Cup finals after Argentina were defeated 1-0 by Germany in 2014.
At 39 years old, Messi is unlikely to feature at the 2030 tournament, though he is yet to clarify his international future.
“The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things,” Messi wrote on social media.
“The matches we turned around by giving it our all – moments that will remain in our memories forever – and the support of an entire country which, combined with this group’s hard work and effort, brought us back among the world’s elite once again.
“It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message. Once again, we managed to unite as a country and stand together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.
“I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship.”
Messi contributed eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached the final for the third time in the past four World Cups.
He played a key role in his side coming from behind to beat Egypt and England in the knockout stages, but could not overcome a Spain side that conceded one goal in the whole tournament.
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was shown a second yellow card in second half injury time for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi, wrote on social media that he and his team-mates had “defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment”.
Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate altercations between both sets of players at the full-time whistle.
“For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up,” Fernandez added.