Guwahati, Sept. 1 -- Argentina football legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, saying the decision "hurts" but acknowledging that "the time has come" to bring his national-team career to an end.

The 39-year-old has been one of Argentina's most influential players, leading the team to World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022. He finishes his international career as Argentina's all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, with 125 goals in 207 appearances.

In a statement, Messi said he had given everything to the national team and now felt he had nothing more to contribute.

"Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply," Messi said.

"I love, have loved, and wil...