Lionel Messi Breaks Multiple World Cup Records at Age 39 in Historic Run

At 39 years old and likely playing in his final World Cup, Lionel Messi continues to defy expectations by breaking numerous records. His crucial equalizing goal against Egypt in the Round of 16 not only kept Argentina's title hopes alive but also marked a historic milestone in his career. Messi now holds the record for the most World Cup goals ever scored, with 21 goals, surpassing Germany's Miroslav Klose by five. He achieved this milestone during the group stage win over Austria and has since added goals against Jordan, Cape Verde, and Egypt.

Messi is also the first player to score seven or more goals in two separate World Cup tournaments, a feat recently matched by Kylian Mbappé. His appearance against Algeria made him the first footballer to participate in six World Cups, a record he shares with Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa. Additionally, Messi extended his streak to nine consecutive World Cup matches with a goal, breaking the previous record of six held by Just Fontaine and Jairzinho.

He became the first player to score in six consecutive knockout matches, including goals against Australia, the Netherlands, Croatia, and France in 2022, and Cape Verde and Egypt in the current tournament. Messi also set a new record for most World Cup match wins with 22, surpassing Klose's 17. He holds the record for most World Cup appearances (30) and minutes played (2,519), both of which may increase as Argentina advances.

The new World Cup format allowed Messi to become the first player to score in every stage of the tournament across different editions, from group stages to the final. His eight goals in this tournament tie the 96-year-old Argentine record set by Guillermo Stábile in 1930. Messi is also closing in on the record for most World Cup assists, with nine, matching Germany's Fritz Walter. Having appeared in two World Cup finals (2014 and 2022), he could tie Brazil's Cafu with three finals if Argentina reaches another.

Currently leading the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot race with eight goals, Messi is ahead of Mbappé and Erling Haaland by one goal. If he maintains this pace, he could secure another Golden Boot and lead Argentina to a new World Cup title in what may be his final tournament.