Injured Messi exits in tears in Copa América final

Lionel Messi was forced off with an apparent right ankle injury in the second half of the Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.

Messi collapsed to the field in the 64th minute and immediately signaled his concern to the Argentina bench. He remained down for several minutes as trainers came out before being helped to his feet and immediately taking his shoe off his right foot.

As he walked off the field, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner took off his captains armband and threw his shoe to the ground in frustration. An emotional Messi was then shown covering his face, sobbing in his seat.

He was replaced by Nicolas Gonzalez.

Messi had earlier gone down holding his right ankle after a strong challenge in the first half.

The Inter Miami player chased the ball and tried to kick it before it went out of bounds. He planted his right leg awkwardly and appeared to take contact from Colombia’s Santiago Arias.

The 37-year-old writhed in pain and rolled over several times as he grabbed at his lower right leg. Trainers worked on the area for a few minutes before helping him to his feet. He walked slowly toward the sideline before reentering the game.

Messi had been dealing with a leg injury and discomfort through much of the tournament and missed Argentina’s group stage finale. He had one shot attempt in the first half Sunday.

The final was tied 0-0 when Messi exited.

Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.