Lionel Messi has retired from international football following Argentina's defeat to Chile in the Copa America final last night.
The Barcelona forward missed a spot kick as Argentina were beaten on penalties and this morning the 29-year-old announced that it would be his last appearance in a national jersey.
"For me the national team is over. I've done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion," he said.
"It's been four finals, it's not meant for me. I tried. It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn't get it, so I think it's over."
Lionel Messi reacts after missing a penalty during last night's Copa America final. Image: Julio Cortez / AP/Press Association Images
Argentina reached the World Cup final in 2014 only to be beaten by Germany and this latest defeat constitutes their third in three years at major competitions.
Messi, who won gold with the national team at the 2008 Olympics, sent his penalty over the bar as Chile beat Argentina 4-2.
Sergio Aguero and Javier Mascherano also announced their retirement.
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