Brazilian icon Neymar has confirmed what has long been expected: that the 2026 FIFA World Cup marked his international curtain call.
The 34-year-old attacker managed to work his way back into the squad under Carlo Ancelotti just in time for the North American tournament, making his first appearance since 2023 in the group stage.
Unfortunately for Neymar, he was unable to conjure up some of the magic he became renowned for during his prime, making just two appearances off the bench, including their Round of 16 exit at the hands of Norway, during which he scored a penalty.
Neymar scored his 80th international goal at the recent FIFA World Cup -Credit:Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images
After that underwhelming loss, marking the end of Neymar's fourth World Cup, he seemed to suggest that his international career had reached its end , commenting, "I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over."
Fast forward to Tuesday, Neymar confirmed his decision to retire from international soccer following Santos' 4-2 win in the Copa Sudamericana against Universidad Central.
"I think my time with the national team has already passed," he said, via Reuters . "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."
Neymar steps away from the Brazilian national team as its all-time leading scorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances - second only to Cafu on 142.
His decision may come as a disappointment for his dad, Neymar Sr., who urged his son to continue playing in a social media post after Brazil's World Cup exit.
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"Oh, son... What a journey," he wrote. "What a beautiful path. Challenging. Often painful, but infinitely blessed. A decision made today does not define your entire story.
"A dream that hasn't come true yet doesn't mean it's dead. The end of the story is never determined by a difficult moment…"
He went on to add, "I watched the boy grow into one of the greatest players of his generation in history," Neymar Sr. said. "When I look back, I see much more than trophies, goals, contracts, or recognition. I see miracles. I see deliverance. I see promises being fulfilled.
"And when I look ahead, I remain just as certain. The best doesn't depend on age or circumstances. I want to ask you something as a father. Son, keep playing football.
"Rediscover the joy of having the ball at your feet. Smile again on the field. Today you are healthy. God has given you another chance to do what you've always loved. Enjoy football. Don't carry on your shoulders the weight of decisions, criticism, expectations, or the setbacks that life brings.
Neymar has scored twice for Santos since the World Cup -Credit:Marco Miatelo/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images
"Don't be afraid of tomorrow. Live for today. Train. Smile. Play football. Delight people once again. Do what God has placed in your hands since you were a child. And never forget that, even before the world admired you, you were always loved by God."
Since returning from the World Cup, Neymar has scored two goals in as many appearances for Santos. He remains under contract with his boyhood club through December. Whether he plans to continue playing beyond this remains unclear.
