Rio de Janeiro, July 29: Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a distinguished 16-year career with the national team.
The 34-year-old confirmed his decision after Santos’ 4-2 victory over Venezuela’s Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana, ending speculation over his future following Brazil’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Neymar’s final appearance for Brazil came in the Round of 16 defeat against Norway.
Reflecting on his international journey, Neymar said he leaves with no regrets, having always given his best for the national team.
“My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood, my life and always fought for the yellow jersey, but now I don’t want to anymore,” he said.
Neymar retires as Brazil’s highest-ever goalscorer and one of the country’s greatest footballers. During his international career, he represented Brazil in multiple FIFA World Cups, Copa America tournaments and the Olympic Games, earning global recognition for his achievements.
The former Brazil captain also dismissed reports that he had criticised and intimidated younger teammates at Santos, clarifying that he was only demanding higher standards from the squad.
Neymar will now focus entirely on his club career with Santos, who progressed to the Round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana after defeating Universidad Central. Santos will next face Ecuadorian club Macara in the knockout stage.
