LIONEL MESSI has announced his retirement from international football after missing a penalty in Argentina's shoot-out loss to Chile in the Copa America final.
The Barcelona star, who is his country's all-time top scorer with 55 goals, has failed to win a major trophy at international level.
He was part of the team that lost the World Cup final to Germany in 2014, and has called time on international duty after defeats in the Copa America finals of 2007, 2015 and 2016.
Argentina were beaten 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out in last night's final against Chile at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Messi and Lazio midfielder Lucas Biglia missing their spot kicks.
After the match the forward said to TyC Sports: "I think it's best for everyone, for me and for many people who want it. The choice for me is over, it is a decision. I tried many times (to be champion) but did not.
"There are four finals, not for me, unfortunately, it was what I wanted. More than ever I wanted to win at least this cup but (it) could not be.
"It's very hard, but the decision is taken. Now I will not try more and there will be no going back. I tried many times to get a title and failed."
The 29-year-old has had a glittering career at club level, winning the Ballon d'Or five times as well as eight La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and four Copa del Rey crowns.
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