Lionel Messi has no plans to play in 2026 World Cup, but says he'll 'see how things go'

Lionel Messi is coming to the United States later this year, but don't expect him to be here when the World Cup arrives.

The 35-year-old superstar achieved the one title that eluded him his entire career when he led Argentina to a World Cup title in Qatar last year, his fifth World Cup appearance.

But it appears Messi will stick to his word and go out on a high note. He previously said the 2022 World Cup would be his last, and he asserted Tuesday he has no plans to compete in the 2026 World Cup hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

"I think not. (Qatar) was my last World Cup. I'll see how things go, but as it is right now, no, I won't go to the next World Cup," Messi told Chinese television station Titan Sports.

During the 2022 World Cup, Messi scored seven goals, one in each of Argentina's matches, en route to a thrilling win in the final match against France. He won the Golden Ball award for the second time, also winning it for the 2014 tournament.

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Even if Messi, who will be 39 by the next World Cup, won't be playing in any of the 11 U.S. stadiums hosting World Cup action in 2026, American fans will still have plenty of options to see him play in the coming years. The seven-time FIFA Ballon d'Or winner said Wednesday he is planning to join Inter Miami CF of Major League Soccer this year. There is already high demand and skyrocketing ticket prices to see Messi when he debuts with the club this summer.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lionel Messi says he has no plans to play in 2026 World Cup