Watch: Was this injury the end of Lionel Messi's Argentina career?

Argentina's Lionel Messi is a champion yet again. On Sunday night, he and his compatriots defeated Colombia 1-0 in extra time in the Copa America final.

The victory saw Messi lift his third major trophy in as many tournaments and Argentina's record 16th Copa America championship. But the night was bittersweet after an apparent non-contact injury forced Messi to leave the match in the 65th minute.

Despite his teammates rallying to finish the job, Messi was emotional as he hobbled to the Argentina bench and was seen crying as he rested his ice-wrapped ankle.

Broadcast footage later revealed Messi's ankle had substantial swelling after he unwrapped it, sparking fears for his playing future.

For Messi to be so distraught over such an injury, it's clear it could threaten not only his return to Inter Miami in the MLS but also any potential return to competing in his nation's colors again.

Messi did not formally announce nor hint at any retirement plans before Copa America but the knock he picked up in Sunday night's final is sure to factor into any pending decisions.