During a press conference after Argentina's victory over Austria in the second round of Group J at the 2026 World Cup, Messi was asked about his potential participation in the next World Cup, which will mark the tournament's centenary. "I don't know," the 39-year-old superstar replied. "I'm not really thinking about that right now. That prospect is still quite far off, but as I've said, I live day by day and focus on the present."

Messi (right) dribbles past goalkeeper Alexander Schlager before scoring Argentina's second goal in their 2-0 victory over Austria in the second round of Group J at the 2026 World Cup in Arlington, Texas on 22/6. *AP*

While making no firm commitment, Messi did not rule out the possibility of participating in the 2030 World Cup. The Inter Miami Club forward stated he would continue playing as long as he could contribute to the team. He added, "Yes, I will continue for a while longer, as long as I can contribute, feel physically well, and help my teammates. I will continue to play."

Messi turned 39 on 24/6. Before the 2026 World Cup, many speculated this would be his final appearance in the tournament. However, his current form has made those predictions less convincing. Messi is experiencing an unprecedented start to his World Cup career, scoring all 5 of Argentina's goals in their first two matches, including a hat-trick against Algeria and two goals against Austria.

The two goals against Austria also allowed Messi to surpass Miroslav Klose, making him the sole record holder for most goals in World Cup history with 18 goals. Before that match, he and the former German forward each had 16 goals.

Despite achieving a significant milestone, Messi remained composed when discussing the match. He even missed a penalty before scoring the two crucial goals. "The way things unfolded was spectacular," he said. "Today I had a penalty that could have increased the score, but if I had scored from that penalty, perhaps I wouldn't have scored the other two goals. Nobody knows for sure, but I am satisfied with the result."

Key moments from Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria

After the match, when asked about his favorite goal among the 18 he had scored in the World Cup, Messi admitted he was too exhausted to think about it. He appeared drained during the interview and stated he could not clearly recall how all 18 goals were scored.

If Messi participates in the 2030 World Cup, he will establish several unprecedented milestones. He would become the first male player to feature in seven World Cups. Currently, he shares the record for six appearances with Cristiano Ronaldo and goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

The 2030 World Cup also holds particular importance for Argentina. While the tournament will primarily be hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, three centenary matches commemorating 100 years of the World Cup will take place in South America. Argentina has been granted the right to host one of these three matches at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. The other two matches will be hosted by Uruguay and Paraguay. This will mark the first time Argentina has hosted a World Cup match since 1978.

The prospect of playing a World Cup match on home soil could serve as motivation for Messi to extend his international career. His current contract with Inter Miami runs until 2028. When that contract concludes, Messi will be 41 years old, leaving him less than two years before the 2030 World Cup.

Hoang An (according to Goal, NDTV)