Neymar retires from Brazil football after World Cup exit

Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. has announced his retirement from international football, ending a 16-year career with the national team following the country's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 34-year-old forward confirmed his decision on July 29, 2026, after playing for his club, Santos, stating his time with the Seleção was over. Neymar leaves as Brazil's all-time leading men's goalscorer with 80 goals, surpassing the legendary Pelé's record of 77.

Neymar's final appearance for Brazil came in the World Cup Round of 16 on July 3, 2026, in a 2-1 defeat to Norway. He scored a stoppage-time penalty in that match, marking his last goal for his country. His international career, which began with his senior debut in 2010, spanned four World Cups, multiple Copa América tournaments, and the Olympic Games. He was a key figure in Brazil's 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup victory and captained the team to its first Olympic men's football gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games.

Injuries were a persistent challenge throughout his tenure, most notably during the recent World Cup. A grade two calf muscle injury sustained while playing for Santos forced him to miss Brazil's first two matches...