Brazilian football star Neymar has officially ended his international career after Brazil's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The forward tearfully confirmed his decision following the national team's defeat to Norway in the round of 16.
Speaking after Santos' 4-2 victory over Venezuela's UCV in the Copa Sudamericana, Neymar said, "My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood and my life... but now I don't want it anymore."
Neymar, who is Brazil's all-time top scorer, had been recalled to the national squad nearly three years after his last appearance. However, he featured for only 37 minutes across two matches in the tournament. His sole goal—a penalty—was not enough to prevent Brazil's 2-1 loss to Norway.
At 34 years old, Neymar remains contracted with Santos until the end of the year, where he is currently helping the club avoid relegation. He marked his return to club football with two goals in his first match back, celebrating one with a card-dealing gesture in response to criticism over his participation in a poker tournament during a previous Copa Sudamericana fixture.
In the recent Copa Sudamericana return leg against UCV, Neymar started on the bench as Santos secured their place in the last 16 comfortably.
