University of Buenos Aires to award Messi doctorate before national team farewell

Yet another special honour is set to be added alongside numerous achievements in Lionel Messi's football career. Ahead of his probable farewell match for the national team, Argentina's University of Buenos Aires has decided to award Messi its highest honorary doctorate degree.

The university's higher council unanimously approved the decision. The university authorities said the honour is being given in recognition of Messi's sporting achievements, as well as his representation of Argentina, his humility, perseverance and his influence on national identity.

University Rector Ricardo Gelpi said the university wants to recognise Messi's personality, humility and perseverance beyond his statistics on the field. He also remarked that through sports, Messi has become an important representative of Argentina's popular culture and national identity.

The university's statement also highlighted Messi's achievements for the national team. Alongside winning the 2021 and 2024 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima and the Qatar World Cup, he was also the team's captain on the path to Argentina finishing as runners-up in the 2026 World Cup.

Messi will play his last match for Argentina against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6. He is scheduled to be given this honour before that match. As a result, another special recognition is set to be added to the Argentine star's career ahead of his probable farewell match for the national team.