Lionel Messi sensationally announced his retirement from international football on Sunday after Argentina crashed to an upset defeat against Chile in the final of the Copa America.

It was Argentina’s fourth straight defeat featuring Messi in a major final.

"I’ve done all I can, I’ve been in four finals and it hurts not to be a champion. It’s a hard moment for me and the team, and it’s difficult to say, but it’s over with the Argentina team," the heartbroken Barcelona striker said after the match.

Here are some highlights from Messi’s 11-year international career:

Coming in as a second-half substitute, Messi was sent off within 30 seconds on his international debut in 2005. — AFP

At the age of 19, Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006. — Reuters

Messi played his first Copa America final in 2007, which Argentina lost to Brazil 3-0 in Maracaibo, Venezuela. — Reuters

Messi stormed in as Argentina’s captain in 2011. — AFP

Messi led his side to the final of FIFA World Cup 2014 which they lost to Germany 1-0 at Maracana Stadium, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. — AFP

In his penultimate international game, Messi became the highest goal scorer for Argentina with a free-kick against the United States in the semi-final of 2016 Copa America. — AFP

After failing to end Argentina’s title drought, a heartbroken Messi bids adieu to international football. — AFP

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