Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires, the Argentine national team’s press service said. The university council unanimously awarded him its highest honorary distinction.
The ceremony took place at the Argentine Football Association’s training base ahead of the 39-year-old forward’s farewell match for Argentina. UBA rector Ricardo Gelpi and vice-rector Emiliano Yacobitti presented Messi with a diploma and medal.
“I could never have imagined that I would receive something like this. Something that has nothing to do — or perhaps does have something to do — with football and everything I have achieved in sport. Receiving this recognition and being able to say that I am an honorary doctor is a source of pride,” Messi said.
After the 2026 World Cup, Messi announced that he would end his career with Argentina’s national team. His farewell match against Benin is being played on the night of October 6–7 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. The Associated Press and El País also describe it as his final match for Argentina.
Sport-Express says Messi has made 207 appearances for Argentina and scored 125 goals. UBA said the distinction recognized his professional career and values, including his commitment to representing Argentina.