Brazilian football star Neymar has announced his retirement from international football after Brazil’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old made the emotional announcement after Brazil suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16. Neymar came off the bench and scored a stoppage-time penalty, but it was not enough to stop Brazil from crashing out of the tournament.
Speaking after the match, Neymar said:
“I tried. I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium and I finished here. It is now over.”
The announcement brings an end to a remarkable 16-year international career. Neymar retires as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 80 goals and 130 appearances for the five-time world champions.
Although he helped Brazil win the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and the Olympic gold medal in Rio 2016, the FIFA World Cup title remained out of reach. Neymar played in four World Cups, but injuries and painful eliminations prevented him from lifting football’s biggest trophy.
His retirement also marks the end of an era for Brazil, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti expected to begin rebuilding the Seleção following their Round of 16 exit.
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