Mexico (Web Desk): Brazil forward Neymar has announced his retirement from international football after Brazil's campaign came to an end with a defeat to Norway in the pre-quarterfinals.
The 34-year-old appeared visibly emotional after the final whistle and confirmed that the match marked the end of his international career.
Speaking to reporters, Neymar said he had given everything he had for Brazil and felt the time had come to bring his journey with the national team to a close.
Reflecting on the occasion, Neymar described the stadium as one of the most meaningful venues of his career, saying it was where his international journey had begun and where it had now reached its conclusion.
He thanked his teammates, coaching staff, family and Brazilian supporters for standing by him throughout the years, adding that representing his country had been the greatest honour of his career.
Neymar made his senior debut for Brazil in a friendly against the United States on August 10, 2010, scoring on his debut.
Over the next 16 years, he established himself as one of the finest players of his generation, making more than 130 appearances for the national team and scoring 80 international goals, placing him among Brazil's all-time leading scorers.
During his international career, Neymar helped Brazil win the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and played a key role in the country's historic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
He also represented Brazil at multiple FIFA World Cups and Copa América tournaments, earning a reputation for his creativity, flair and match-winning performances.
Widely regarded as one of Brazil's greatest footballers, Neymar leaves the international stage after a career filled with memorable moments, individual milestones and major contributions to the national team, bringing an end to an era in Brazilian football.