The king of world football is showing no signs of relinquishing his crown. Twenty years after announcing himself on the grandest stage, Lionel Messi has scripted yet another chapter in his extraordinary career. The Argentine maestro became the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history after scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, helping the reigning champions book their place in the last 32.

His trademark left-footed curler in the 38th minute was more than just the opening goal—it was a history-making strike. With that effort, Messi surpassed German legend Miroslav Klose and etched his name atop the World Cup scoring charts with 17 goals. He later added another from a tight angle, taking his tally to 18 and further strngthening his legacy.

From Wonderkid to World Cup Legend

The achievement comes two decades after Messi burst onto the global stage as Argentina’s youngest-ever World Cup scorer. Last week, the Inter Miami star celebrated his 200th international appearance, and now, just days before turning 39, he has added another record to his overflowing trophy cabinet.

His latest exploits have once again highlighted why he remains football’s ultimate showman.

Messi had already matched Klose’s tally with a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening game. Against Austria, despite missing an early penalty after a lengthy VAR review, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner bounced back in style, producing two moments of brilliance that sent fans into raptures.

Chasing Another Piece of History

The Argentine captain is enjoying a dream start to the tournament. A hat-trick in the opening match. A brace and a record-breaking night in the second. Another group-stage encounter against Jordan still to come. That sensational form has made Messi one of the leading contenders for the Golden Boot—an award that has surprisingly eluded him throughout his illustrious career.

Even more remarkable, Messi has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches. Only France’s Just Fontaine in 1958 and Brazil’s Jairzinho in 1970 have achieved the same feat. No player in history has scored in seven straight World Cup games. With another opportunity awaiting him, Messi could soon stand alone once again.

Can Anyone Take the Crown?

Football’s new generation—Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Vinicius Jr—has already begun making its mark on the world stage.

But the old master refuses to fade away. At nearly 39 and after three years in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, Messi continues to dominate the biggest tournament in football with the same elegance, hunger and genius that made him a global phenomenon.

As Argentina chase another World Cup title, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the throne of world football still belongs to Lionel Messi.