New Delhi, Sep 2026 : International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah on Tuesday paid tribute to Argentine football great Lionel Messi following the conclusion of his remarkable international career, praising the World Cup winner for his humility and extraordinary achievements on the football field.
Shah took to social media to congratulate Messi and recalled his meeting with the Argentine superstar during Messi’s visit to India last year alongside teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul. Shah also shared a photograph from the meeting in which he presented Messi with an Indian cricket jersey.
“An era-defining international journey comes to an end. Reflecting on our meeting during your historic visit to India, your profound humility stood out just as much as your unmatched genius on the pitch,” Shah wrote on X.
Describing the interaction as a memorable cross-sport moment, Shah said he was proud to have personally presented Messi with India's national colours. He thanked the football icon for the memories and wished him success in the next phase of his life.
Messi announced his retirement from international football on Monday, bringing an end to a celebrated 21-year career with Argentina. In an emotional statement, the 39-year-old said the decision was painful but maintained that he had given everything to the national team.
“Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team,” Messi said.
The Argentine captain added that he had “nothing left to give” and believed the time was right to make way for a new generation of talented players.
Messi's international career has been marked by both disappointment and historic success. After several setbacks on the biggest stage, he finally guided Argentina to FIFA World Cup glory in 2022, ending the country's long wait for the prestigious trophy.
He revealed that he had written his retirement message on July 21, two days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Reflecting on his relationship with Argentine supporters, Messi said he would deeply miss the atmosphere of playing for the national team and hearing fans from the pitch.
He thanked supporters for their affection throughout his two-decade international journey and said he would now continue supporting Argentina from the sidelines.
Messi's retirement marks the end of one of the most influential international careers in football history, with the Argentine leaving behind a legacy defined by individual brilliance, leadership, perseverance and a historic World Cup triumph.
