Neymar Jr Announces International Retirement After Brazil's World Cup Exit

Neymar Jr has seemingly brought an end to his international career, saying he no longer plans to represent Brazil after the team's early exit from the FIFA World Cup earlier this month. The veteran forward is Brazil's highest-ever goalscorer and has been a key figure for the national side for many years.

The 34-year-old shared his thoughts after helping Santos to a 4-2 victory over Venezuela's Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana on Tuesday.

Speaking to the reporters about his future with the national team, Neymar indicated that his journey in Brazil's famous yellow jersey is now over.

"I think my time with the national team has already passed. I made history there, and I'm very happy about it. I experienced a lot there, gave my blood and my life, and always fought and battled for the yellow jersey. But I don't think I want it anymore," said Neymar Jr.

For the unversed, Neymar came off the bench and scored a stoppage-time penalty against Norway in Brazil’s last match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. After the game, he hinted that it was likely his final appearance for the Brazilian national team.

"I tried, I tried. Now it's over," said Neymar Jr while talking to the reporters.

Neymar was very emotional after Brazil suffered their earliest World Cup exit since 1990 in the recent tournament. The defeat also meant the five-time champions would have to wait longer for a record sixth World Cup title.

Neymar represented Brazil at four FIFA World Cups and left a lasting mark on the national team. He ended his international career with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 matches, making him Brazil's highest goalscorer.

The 34-year-old also enjoyed an impressive club career with Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, winning several major trophies. However, his time with the national team didn't bring many titles, as his only trophy with Brazil's senior side came in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.