Brazilian forward Neymar has officially retired from international football, bringing to a close one of the most remarkable careers in the history of the Brazil national team. The 34-year-old announced his decision after Brazil’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying his journey with the Seleção had come to an end after giving everything for his country.
Neymar made his senior debut for Brazil in August 2010 and quickly established himself as the nation’s biggest football star. Over the next 16 years, he earned 130 international caps, scoring 80 goals and providing 58 assists, making him Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer. His flair, creativity and ability to deliver in crucial moments made him one of the finest players of his generation.
Although a FIFA World Cup title eluded him, Neymar represented Brazil at four World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026). Injuries disrupted several of those campaigns, but he remained a key figure whenever fit. His greatest senior international triumph came in 2013, when he inspired Brazil to victory in the FIFA Confederations Cup, winning the tournament’s Golden Ball as the best player. He also captained Brazil to the country’s first-ever Olympic men’s football gold medal at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
Neymar leaves the international stage as one of Brazil’s greatest-ever footballers. While the World Cup trophy remained beyond his reach, his goals, records and unforgettable performances have secured his place among the legends of Brazilian football.
