Lionel Messi expressed deep gratitude to Argentina fans following their 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in New Jersey. "The pain is immense and it will take time for this wound to heal," Messi wrote on Instagram, reflecting on the loss. He also cherished the "good matches" and the "support of an entire country" that propelled Argentina to be "among the best in the world" once again.

Messi highlighted the unity and pride of being Argentinian, thanking fans for their greetings and messages. He congratulated Spain on their championship win. The Inter Miami forward, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and consecutive Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, reached 125 international goals in this tournament, second only to Cristiano Ronaldo's 146. He had previously shone with eight goals and four assists.

Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia lauded Messi's contributions. Messi made history as the first player to start three World Cup finals, though he couldn't secure a win against Spain in this latest appearance.