Messi hints at participating in 2030 World Cup
Lionel Messi has hinted at continuing his international career until the 2030 World Cup, saying he wants to focus on the present and contribute to the Argentina team.
Lionel Messi has shown no intention of ending his Argentina career after the World Cup. In fact, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has even hinted that he may continue playing until the 2030 World Cup. Messi is currently playing like a star in North America. He has led the race for the Golden Boot by scoring five goals in his two appearances. Messi has now become the World Cup's record scorer, with 18 goals to his name, 12 of which have come in the last two editions. With his second goal against Austria, Messi reached five goals in the 2026 campaign. But Messi, who turned 39 on Wednesday, still wants to continue playing at the international level. "I don't know. To be honest, I'm not thinking about it at the moment," he told reporters when asked if he could play at the next World Cup, in which Argentina will host a match that will be part of FIFA's centennial celebrations. "It seems a little far away but, like I said, I'm living every day one at a time and focusing on the present. I'm going to keep playing as long as I can contribute, feel good physically, and help my teammates. I'm going to keep playing." Messi's goal has helped Argentina to two wins and top Group J. They are now considered favorites to win the World Cup, according to Opta's supercomputer, which gives them a 15.5% chance of lifting the trophy.