Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine footballer, has announced that he will not participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics. In an interview with ESPN, Messi explained that his decision was based on his age and the demanding schedule of the upcoming Copa America and World Cup.
Messi, who turns 37 in June, acknowledged that his age is a factor in his decision. "At my age, I don't want to play everything and I need to make the right choices," he said. The Copa America, which will be held in the United States from June 20 to July 14, will be a major test for Argentina, and Messi wants to focus on that tournament.
The Olympics, which start on July 26, would have been a significant challenge for Messi, who has already won a gold medal with Argentina in 2008. However, the tight schedule between the Copa America and the Olympics would have put a strain on his body.
"It's a difficult moment, because there's the Copa America, and that would mean two or three consecutive months away from my club," Messi said. "I need to make the right choices."
Messi's decision not to participate in the Olympics does not mean that he is retiring from international football. He has expressed his desire to play in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
"I won't take part in a World Cup just to say I've done six," Messi said. "If I feel good and everything is in place for me to be there, fine, but I won't go just to go."
Messi's decision is a blow to Argentina's Olympic hopes, but it is understandable given his age and the demanding schedule of the upcoming tournaments. The Argentine legend will continue to focus on his club career with Inter Miami and on leading his country to success in the Copa America and the World Cup.
Tags: #LionelMessi, #Argentina, #Olympics, #CopaAmerica, #WorldCup
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