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Neymar announces retirement from international football (Img: IANS)
New Delhi: Brazilian football icon Neymar Jr. has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's shock exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a remarkable 16-year journey with the Seleção. The 34-year-old confirmed his decision after Brazil's 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16.
Neymar bows out as Brazil's all-time leading men's goalscorer, finishing with 80 goals in 130 international appearances. He also ends his international career with 59 assists, making him one of the country's most influential creators in addition to being its most prolific scorer.
With his goal against Norway, Neymar became only the second Brazilian after Pelé to score in four different FIFA World Cups—2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026. His final international goal ensured he joined one of Brazilian football's most exclusive lists.
One of Neymar's defining achievements came at the Rio 2016 Olympics, where he captained Brazil to its first-ever Olympic gold medal in men's football, scoring the decisive penalty in the final.
At club level, he remains the most expensive footballer in history, following his record €222 million transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017- a record that still stands. He also won the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona and multiple domestic league titles in Brazil, Spain and France.
Across his club and international career, Neymar has established himself as one of football's defining players of the modern era. While injuries often interrupted his journey, his flair, creativity and ability to deliver on the biggest stages made him one of Brazil's greatest footballers.
Although his international career has come to an end, Neymar leaves behind a legacy built on unforgettable moments, historic records and a lasting impact on Brazilian football.
