Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentine football star announced his retirement from international football.
Dhawan said that the Argentina national team shirt would not feel the same without Messi wearing the famous No. 10 jersey. Messi has been one of the most important players in Argentina’s history and has represented the country for many years.
Messi, 39, announced his retirement from international football on August 31. His decision has led to emotional reactions from fans and sports personalities around the world.
Dhawan Praises Messi’s Career
Dhawan shared his message on X and praised Messi for the journey he had throughout his career.
He described Messi’s career as a story of pressure, hard work, disappointment and finally success. Dhawan also highlighted the strong legacy Messi has created with Argentina.
He wrote that the Argentina shirt would not feel quite the same without the No. 10 and praised Messi for his perseverance and achievements.
For many football fans, Messi’s No. 10 jersey has become closely connected with Argentina. His performances, leadership and goals have made him one of the most recognisable figures in international football.
Yuvraj Singh Also Pays Tribute
Dhawan was not the only Indian sports star to celebrate Messi’s career.
Former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh also shared a tribute on Instagram. He praised Messi’s achievements and said that the footballer would be remembered long after his final game.
The messages from Indian sports stars show the global impact Messi has had, even among athletes from other sports.
A Historic Career With Argentina
Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s most-capped player.
He has made 203 appearances for the national team and is also Argentina’s highest goal scorer, with 124 goals.
His biggest achievements with Argentina came in the final years of his international career.
Messi won the Copa America in 2021, giving Argentina its first major international trophy in many years. One year later, he reached the biggest achievement of his career by helping Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
World Cup Victory Completed His Journey
The 2022 World Cup victory was especially important for Messi.
Before winning the tournament, he had experienced several painful defeats with Argentina. He had also faced criticism from some fans who believed he had not achieved enough with the national team.
Messi had announced his international retirement in 2016 after Argentina lost the Copa America final. However, he later changed his decision and returned to the national team.
His return eventually led to one of the greatest moments of his career.
In the 2022 World Cup final against France, Messi scored twice and also converted a penalty during the shootout. Argentina eventually won the match and lifted the World Cup after a 36-year wait.
The victory helped complete Messi’s collection of major international honours and strengthened his status as one of football’s greatest players.
Messi Will Continue Playing for Inter Miami
Although Messi is stepping away from international football, his playing career is not over.
He will continue to play club football for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States.
Inter Miami are currently fourth in the league standings with 42 points, and Messi will continue to be an important part of the team’s plans.
A Lasting Legacy
Messi’s international career has included difficult moments, major disappointments and historic victories.
From early criticism to winning the Copa America and World Cup, his journey with Argentina has been remarkable.
For Argentina supporters, the No. 10 shirt will always be strongly connected with Messi.
As he steps away from international football, fans around the world are now celebrating his achievements and the lasting impact he has had on the sport.