Lionel Messi says "the pain is immense" after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup 2026 final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in extra time. The result crowned Spain world champions for a second time and ended Argentina's defence of the title they won in 2022, dealing Messi his second World Cup final defeat after also losing to Germany in 2014.

At 39, Messi contributed eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached their third final in the past four World Cups, helping the side fight back from behind to beat Egypt and England in the knockout rounds. Spain, who conceded just one goal throughout the tournament, proved too strong in the final, and Messi is considered unlikely to play at the 2030 World Cup, though he has not yet confirmed his international future. In a social media post, he thanked supporters, praised his teammates' effort and congratulated Spain on their victory.