After World Cup heartbreak, what’s left for Lionel Messi to win?

Lionel Messi suffered World Cup heartbreak as Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final, with the Golden Ball and Golden Boot going to other players. At 38 years old, Messi is expected by many to have played his last World Cup, as he would be 42 by the 2030 tournament. He remains active with Inter Miami under contract until 2028, is currently among the top scorers in MLS this season, and is third favourite for the Ballon d'Or at 11/4, behind Harry Kane (13/10) and Lamine Yamal (9/4).