Yuvraj Singh, Kuldeep Yadav pay emotional tribute to retiring Lionel Messi

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Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh hailed legendary FIFA World Cup-winning footballer Lionel Messi following his international retirement, saying that the game will remember him ‘long after the final whistle’.

The legendary forward hung up his boots after an incredible two-decade international career with Argentina, leaving behind countless unforgettable memories.

Taking to Instagram, Yuvraj posted a story honouring Messi’s legendary career, writing, “There are very few who become legends while they are still writing history. 

You are one of them, Leo. What a phenomenal career! The game will remember you long after the final whistle.”

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav, a Barcelona fan, also reshared a video from Messi’s account summarising his transition from a young boy in Rosario to a World Cup champion. The video featured the caption, “Obrigado Leo”, roughly translating to “Thank you, Leo”.

In a written statement, Messi said, “After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team. It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment.”

“I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football,” he added.

Messi reflects on historic journey with Argentina team

Lionel Messi admitted that stepping away “hurts him a lot”, noting that he “gave everything he had and he does not have anything more to give.” He also pointed to the squad’s rising talent, saying they “deserve to be here”.

“There is not much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give. Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here,” he said.

“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you!.” he concluded.

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