Lionel Messi Scores Hat Trick, Admits Retirement Looms
Buenos Aires, Argentina – October 16, 2024
Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 6-0 victory over Bolivia in the South America World Cup qualifiers, scoring a hat trick and providing two assists. The 37-year-old football legend acknowledged that his career’s end is near.
Post-match, Messi expressed gratitude for the fans’ affection, saying, “It makes me emotional to listen to how they shout my name… I know these can be my last games.”
When asked about the 2026 World Cup, Messi remained vague, stating, “I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future… I’m just enjoying all this.”
Messi’s hat trick tied Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for most international hat tricks (10).
This victory solidifies Argentina’s position in the World Cup qualifiers, with Messi’s impressive performance captivating fans worldwide.
