The 35-year-old Messi was honored by the South American Football Confederation, also known as CONMEBOL, with a statue and a baton signifying his leadership and mastery of the game.
In the CONMEBOL museum, Messi's monument will be displayed alongside those of legendary athletes Pele and Diego Maradona.
Argentina defeated the defending champions France 4-2 on penalties in Qatar, and Messi gave his team the inspiration they needed to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
He wrote, "Thanks to #conmebol for this tribute and to #sole_pastorutti for that beautiful moment. It was very special and emotional."
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