Did Messi score a hatrick?

Messi Makes History with 10th International Hat-Trick

On 15 October 2024, Lionel Messi etched his name even deeper into football history, becoming the second male player ever to score 10 international hat-tricks. The moment came during Argentina’s dominant 6–0 win over Bolivia, a performance that underscored both the team’s strength and Messi’s enduring brilliance on the world stage.

This milestone places Messi in rarefied air. For decades, Danish striker Poul Nielsen held the record with eight international hat-tricks, a tally eventually surpassed by Swedish legend Sven Rydell. On 16 May 1932, Rydell broke Nielsen’s record during Sweden’s 7–1 victory over Finland, finishing his career with nine hat-tricks for his country—setting a benchmark that stood untouched for nearly a century.

Messi’s achievement is all the more remarkable given the evolution of the game. Scoring consistently at the international level over such a long career speaks to his longevity, skill, and adaptability. Each of his 10 hat-tricks has come under the global spotlight, from World Cup qualifiers to major tournament stages, cementing his legacy not just as a club phenomenon, but as a relentless force for his national team.

While records are meant to be broken, few expected that someone would match—and now surpass—Rydell’s historic tally in the modern era. Messi’s blend of vision, composure, and clinical finishing continues to define generations. As fans reflect on this latest feat, one thing is clear: milestones like these aren’t just about numbers—they’re about moments that redefine greatness.