Lionel Messi continues to rewrite football history. With his assist for Argentina's opening goal in a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, the Albiceleste captain became the all-time leading assist provider in World Cup history.
At 39 years old, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner now has 10 assists in FIFA World Cup final tournaments, surpassing Germany's Fritz Walter, who previously held the record with nine.
The latest achievement further highlights the Argentine star's extraordinary longevity. Even more remarkably, each of his 10 World Cup assists has been delivered to a different teammate. His first came at the 2006 World Cup, when he set up Hernán Crespo in Argentina's emphatic group-stage victory over Serbia and Montenegro.
Having already become the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history during this edition of the tournament, Messi has now added yet another historic milestone to his extraordinary legacy.
Inter Miami's iconic No. 10 could extend the record even further in Wednesday's semi-final against England. Another decisive performance would move Argentina one step closer to another World Cup final while giving Lionel Messi another opportunity to strengthen his remarkable legacy.