(FILES) Argentinian forwards Lionel Messi (L) and Sergio Aguero, wrapped in their national flag, pose during the men's Olympic football tournament medal ceremony at the national stadium in Beijing during the 2008 Beijing Olympic games on August 23, 2008. Argentina won gold ahead of Nigeria and Brazil. Argentine football player Lionel Messi said on August 31, 2026, he is retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)