New Delhi, June 27: In what came as a shock to millions of football fans across the globe, Lionel Messi announced his sensational retirement from international football after Argentina crashed to an upset defeat against Chile in the Copa America final.

Messi sets goal-scoring record; Full list of Messi records" title="Messi retires from international football; Messi sets goal-scoring record; Full list of Messi records" />Messi retires from international football; Messi sets goal-scoring record; Full list of Messi records

The heartbroken Barcelona superstar was distraught after missing a spot-kick as Chile snatched victory in a penalty shoot-out - Messi's fourth straight defeat in a major final while representing Argentina.

"For me the national team is over," the crestfallen 29-year-old told reporters. "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."

Messi's dramatic announcement followed Argentina's third loss in a major final since 2014.

Soon after the Barcelona star made the shocking announcement, fans took to micro-blogging site to express their shock and anguish over the same.

Twitterati are hailing Lionel Messi's contribution for his country and hope the decision made out of frustration would be revoked. Then there were those who hailed Messi's legacy and his remarkable career for Argentina.

Here is what fans are saying:

OneIndia News