BREAKING: Messi sets new World Cup scoring record

Lionel Messi became the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history by netting his 17th tournament goal against Austria on June 22, 2026, surpassing the previous record held by Miroslav Klose

Lionel Messi now stands alone as the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history.

The Argentina legend scored his 17th career World Cup goal in the 38th minute against Austria on Monday, June, 22, breaking the previous record of 16 that was held by Germany's Miroslav Klose. Messi received a pass from the left as he ran into the box and gracefully fired straight past the goalkeeper to make history.

Messi entered the 2026 World Cup on 13 career goals, but surged up to 16 after scoring a hat trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening game on June 17. Everyone thought he was going to break the record when he stepped to the line for a penalty kick 12 minutes into Monday's match against Austria, but shockingly, Messi missed and shot the ball wide right.

Messi is now level with Brazil legend Marta for the most all-time World Cup goals. Marta has scored 17 goals in her six World Cup appearances.

France star Kylian Mbappe is also climbing the list after he scored twice against Senegal for 14 career World Cup goals. The 27-year-old forward will look to add to that total later on Monday when France faces Iraq.