Barcelona star Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international duty following Argentina defeat against Chile in the Copa America final.

Messi’s announcement, just two days after his 29th birthday, comes after Argentina suffered their third loss in a major final since 2014, reports SkySports.com.

The 29-year-old talisman revealed that his participation with the Argentine national team has come to end after failing to win the Copa America title.

‘For me the national team is over. I’ve done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion,’ Messi said.

It’s been four finals, it’s not meant for me. I tried. It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn’t get it, so I think it’s over.’

Messi insists that it is better for everybody if he retires, after failing to help his side clinch their first major title since 1993.

‘I think this is best for everyone. First of all for me, and then for everyone. I think there’s a lot of people who want this, who obviously are not satisfied, as we are not satisfied reaching a final and not winning it,’ he added.

Argentina’s next matches are in World Cup qualification ahead of the 2018 tournament in Russia.

PHOTO: Reuters/Ricardo Moraes