In an interview with US broadcaster ESPN, Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, confirmed that he won’t pursue a second gold medal with Argentina at the Paris Olympics this summer.
“I spoke with (Argentinian Olympic coach Javier) Mascherano, and we immediately agreed on the situation,” said Messi. He cited the Copa America as a factor, stating, “At my age, I don’t want to play everything and I need to make the right choices.” Messi, who turns 37 on June 24, will be participating in the Copa America from June 20 to July 14, just ahead of the Olympics. Although he’s skipping the Olympics, Messi hasn’t ruled out competing in a record-breaking sixth World Cup in 2026. “It’s great to have records and continue to achieve things but I won’t take part in a World Cup just to say I’ve done six,” Messi remarked.
He emphasized that his decision will depend on how he feels and the circumstances at the time, adding, “It’s very difficult to imagine what can happen because it’s still two years away. I don’t need to commit right now to whether or not I’ll be there.”
