At 39, Lionel Messi continues to redefine football greatness. Despite playing a more managed role under Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, the captain has added 14 remarkable milestones to his legendary career at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The records include:
1. Most goals in men’s FIFA World Cup history – Increased his tally to 19 goals, overtaking Miroslav Klose’s record of 16.
2. First player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, surpassing the previous record of six.
3. Most World Cup appearances – Extended his all-time record to 29 matches.
4. Most World Cup wins by a player, adding more victories with Argentina.
5. Most minutes played in World Cup history, surpassing 2,490 minutes.
6. Oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick, achieving the feat at 38 years and 357 days.
7. Highest-scoring South American in World Cup history, moving past Ronaldo Nazário.
8. Most goals scored from outside the penalty area in World Cup history with six.
9. Joint-most direct free-kick goals at the World Cup, equalling the all-time record with two.
10. First male footballer to play in six FIFA World Cups (2006–2026).
11. Only player to score in five different World Cup editions, extending his unique record with a goal in 2026.
12. Only player to provide an assist in five different World Cups, a record he continues to hold.
13. Most World Cup goal contributions, matching the all-time record while continuing to add to it.
14. Argentina’s all-time leading World Cup scorer, extending his national record to 19 goals.
Messi’s performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have further cemented his status as one of football’s greatest-ever players, with records that may stand for generations