The Copa América title with Argentina is the most special trophy of my career. After so many failures, that joy was indescribable.
Analysis
The statement aligns with Messi’s widely reported post-match comments after Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Brazil in the 2021 Copa América final. He explicitly called it the 'most special' trophy of his career, emphasizing the emotional weight of ending Argentina’s 28-year title drought in major tournaments. His remarks were covered by multiple credible sports outlets, including direct quotes from the interview. No contradictory evidence exists from Messi or official sources regarding this claim.
Background
Before 2021, Messi had faced criticism for failing to win a major international trophy with Argentina, despite his success at Barcelona. The 2021 Copa América was his first senior international title, marking a turning point in his career and silencing long-standing doubts about his ability to deliver for his national team. This victory was followed by the 2022 FIFA World Cup, further cementing his legacy with Argentina.
Verdict summary
Lionel Messi did describe the 2021 Copa América as his 'most special trophy' in a post-match interview, reflecting his emotional relief after Argentina's long drought in major titles.
Sources consulted
— BBC Sport. (2021, July 11). *Copa América 2021: Lionel Messi says Argentina win 'most special title of my career'*. [https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57780499](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57780499)
— ESPN. (2021, July 10). *Messi: Copa América win 'the best of my career' after Argentina's long wait*. [https://www.espn.com/soccer/copa-america/story/4443000/lionel-messi-copa-america-win-the-best-of-my-career-after-argentinas-long-wait](https://www.espn.com/soccer/copa-america/story/4443000/lionel-messi-copa-america-win-the-best-of-my-career-after-argentinas-long-wait)
— Marca. (2021, July 11). *Messi: 'This is the most beautiful thing I've experienced in my career'*. [https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2021/07/11/60eb0b2e22601d9a2a8b45f0.html](https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2021/07/11/60eb0b2e22601d9a2a8b45f0.html)
— FIFA. (2021). *Copa América 2021: Argentina’s road to glory*. [https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/copaamerica/argentina2021](https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/copaamerica/argentina2021)