Neymar Announces Retirement from International Football After World Cup Exit

In a poignant moment, Neymar has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's unexpected defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 34-year-old forward, who leaves as Brazil's all-time leading scorer, expressed his emotions in an interview, reflecting on his journey with the national team. Despite a successful club career, his international accolades include only the 2013 Confederations Cup and two Olympic medals. This marks the end of a significant chapter in Neymar's illustrious career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 6, 2026, 13:19 IST

Neymar's Emotional Farewell to International Football

Photo: @RichlyVic/X

New Jersey, July 6: Neymar has officially declared his retirement from international football following Brazil's disappointing exit in the Round of 16 against Norway during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Under the management of Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil faced a surprising 2-1 defeat to Norway, with Neymar scoring a late penalty after being substituted in.

In a heartfelt interview with Globo Esporte TV after the match, Neymar, visibly emotional, revealed that he had played his last game for the national team. "I tried. I tried," he expressed. "It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over," he added.

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Neymar participated in two matches, both as a substitute. He made a brief appearance against Scotland in the group stage and netted his only goal of the tournament from the penalty spot against Norway.

The 34-year-old forward concluded his international career as Brazil's all-time leading scorer, amassing 80 goals and 58 assists across 130 matches. He also represented Brazil in two Olympic Games, securing a silver medal in 2012 and a gold medal in 2016. Despite a successful club career, his only major achievement with the national team remains the 2013 Confederations Cup.

Neymar made his senior international debut in 2010 and participated in four World Cups. He scored his first goal in just 28 minutes during a 2-0 victory over the USA in East Rutherford. He also competed in two Olympic tournaments, winning a silver medal in 2012 and leading Brazil to a gold medal in 2016.

He was a standout player during the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil but suffered a back injury in the quarter-finals against Colombia. Neymar redeemed himself by leading Brazil to Olympic gold in Rio 2016, scoring the decisive penalty in front of a home crowd at the Maracana.

However, during the 2018 World Cup, he struggled with injuries and failed to make a significant impact as Brazil exited in the quarter-finals. In the 2022 World Cup, after a strong start, he suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him for two group matches. He shone in the quarter-final against Croatia, scoring a stunning goal in extra time, but Brazil ultimately lost in a penalty shootout.