The long-running debate over football’s greatest-ever player has taken on fresh life after Lionel Messi added another historic milestone to his already glittering career.
The Argentine captain further strengthened his legendary status at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Messi reached the landmark after scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, taking his World Cup tally to 18 goals and moving past former record-holder Miroslav Klose, who ended his career with 16 goals.
For many football fans, the achievement is another powerful addition to the résumé of a player who has spent nearly two decades rewriting the sport’s record books. Having already guided Argentina to World Cup success in 2022, Messi continues to shine on football’s biggest stage despite being in the latter stages of his career.
At 39, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has now found the net across five different World Cup tournaments, a feat that highlights both his longevity and his ability to perform under the game’s brightest spotlight. While many players struggle to maintain elite standards over time, Messi continues to deliver decisive moments when his country needs them most.
With the competition still underway, the Argentine icon has an opportunity to add even more goals to his record as Argentina pursue another World Cup triumph.
His latest achievement also sees him move ahead of Brazilian great Ronaldo, who scored 15 World Cup goals, and German legend Gerd Müller, who finished with 14.
Whether viewed as the greatest player of all time or simply one of football’s most influential figures, Messi’s latest accomplishment adds yet another memorable chapter to a career that has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the sport.