Roses, Amazons, rings: Messi's 16 iconic farewell gifts from Argentina

 Lionel Messi's last dance with Argentina was an opportunity to give back, at least in part, everything 'La Pulga' has given to football and its fans throughout his extraordinary career. At the end of the match against Benin at the Monumental, the Albiceleste captain was showered with tributes. From high-end jewellery inspired by the NBA to cultural symbols from Africa, alongside recognition from local clubs and behind-the-scenes surprises, here are all 16 gifts Leo received.

Champion's Ring (from Conmebol)

A massive ring, inspired by NBA style, adorned with diamonds, the AFA crest, the Conmebol emblem, and the number 10. The item, presented by Alejandro Domínguez to Antonela specifically to "give to the greatest of all time," also features the engraving "Messi." The footballer wore the gift in front of Domínguez himself and did not hide his surprise at the unusual recognition.

Legend's Bracelet

(from Conmebol)

Completing the set was a rigid gala bracelet, engraved with the titles won with the Albiceleste and the word “Legacy.” Young Mateo Messi was captivated by the gift and, in the stadium corridors, helped his father put it on. An identical present, but featuring a family design instead of a football reference, was given to Antonela.

Copa América Replica

(from Conmebol)

Among the most symbolic gifts was an official, albeit scaled-down, replica of the continental trophy. Crafted from silver with a wooden base, it was personalised with hand-painted images. The Copa América holds special significance for the Argentine, as the title won in 2021 marked his first major trophy with the senior national team.

2024 Final Ball

​(from Conmebol)

To ensure the Copa América is not forgotten, the official ball from the 2024 final against Colombia was also presented to the number 10. Making the gift even more special were the autographs of all his teammates on it.

Collection of Historical Books

​(from Conmebol)

Finally, Domínguez specifically presented Antonela with a personalised collection of large-format, hardback books, containing photographs, statistics, and various episodes from Leo's career. In the dedication, Conmebol also included a special thought for her, describing her as a fundamental pillar of her husband's success. "They have been specially designed so that your achievements will be preserved forever in the family library," the president assured.

Amazon Warrior Statue Replica

(from Benin)

Before kick-off, Benin also paid tribute to 'La Pulga.' Firstly, with a reproduction of the bronze monument in Cotonou depicting the female warriors of the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey. Upon presenting it, captain Sessi D'Almeida explained to Messi that it was a gift for Antonela. "It's a gift for your wife, because in Benin it is believed to bring great power. It means a lot to us; it is very symbolic," he revealed on the pitch.

Handwritten Letter

​(from Benin)

Among the gifts from the visiting club was a handwritten letter, signed by all the players of the African national team, with words of admiration and gratitude dedicated to the number 10. After presenting the gift, D'Almeida made an effort to speak in Spanish to explain its meaning and content.

Courtesy Rose

​(from Benin)

The flower is typically given as a gesture of courtesy, welcome, and institutional respect. This inspired the idea from a Benin footballer. "Tijani adores Messi and decided to give him a red rose before the match to honour him," recounted Benin coach Gernot Rohr. 

Club Sweatshirt

​(from Benin)

The official sweatshirt of the African national team, presented on the pitch along with the delegation's other tributes, was the only 'shirt swap' of the evening. As Rohr explained, his team was not permitted to take photos or exchange shirts after the match. "They didn't even allow us into the players' corridor. Security turned everyone away," he explained. "My players tried everything, but nothing worked."

Ball from the Last Match

(from the Refereeing Body)

Match official Fernando Véjar participated in the tributes for the Seleccion captain. At the end of the match, with a wink and a handshake, Véjar presented Messi with the ball from his final game with Argentina.

Cards from the Last Match

​(from the Refereeing Body)

Not just the ball, as the Chilean referee also handed Leo the set of cards used in the match. However, Messi did not keep them for himself, preferring to give them to "La Sole" (Soledad Pastorutti), the singer who entertained the post-match celebration.

Commemorative Club Shirt

​(from River Plate)

Among the clubs wishing to honour Messi was River Plate, with president Stéfano Di Carlo personally presenting a special shirt. Produced for the club's 125th anniversary, the version for Leo was personalised on the back with Messi's name and the number 10.

Honorary Club Membership Card

​(from River Plate)

Proudly displayed in a photo, Messi also received the official document formally naming him a lifetime member and honorary associate of the Millonarios.

Commemorative Club Plaque

​​(from River Plate)

River's management ultimately presented him with a silver plaque to thank him on behalf of all their supporters. This affection blossomed despite his failed transfer to the club: as Messi himself recounted in a 2019 interview, River wanted to sign him after seeing him score four goals during a trial, being so impressed that they offered to fund all his medical treatment. However, Newell's refused to release his registration, and the deal was blocked.

Sunglasses

(from the AFA President)

Among Leo's gifts were also exclusively designed sunglasses, surprisingly delivered to his hotel during the pre-match training camp. This gesture from Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia came the day after another display of affection: the AFA president had personally taken charge of the grill during the barbecue organised by Messi to bid farewell to the squad. 

AFA Institutional Tributes

(from the AFA President)

Naturally, official gifts from the Argentine Football Association were also presented. Due to the heavy jeers received from the Monumental crowd before the warm-up, stemming from the highly controversial decision to broadcast an intrusive commercial on the big screens amidst the tributes to Messi, Tapia avoided going onto the pitch and delivered everything to Leo privately, in an internal stadium gym.