Lionel Messi becomes World Cup all‑time top scorer and eyes Olympic farewell

Lionel Messi broke the World Cup scoring record during the 2026 tournament, reaching 18 goals after netting two in Argentina's 2‑0 win over Austria. The Argentine captain surpassed Miroslav Klose's previous tally and became the first player to score in six consecutive World Cups. At 39, Messi also scored three goals in a 3‑0 victory over Algeria earlier in the competition. Beyond the record, he said he hopes to end his international career with a gold medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, describing the Games as a realistic swan song compared with a further World Cup. Messi, who has 201 caps and 122 goals for Argentina, also holds eight Ballon d’Or awards and has won 46 team trophies, including the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa América.

His achievements have sparked widespread celebration among Argentine fans and global football followers, while his potential Olympic participation adds a new chapter to his celebrated career.