Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. announced his retirement from international football after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in New Jersey. The forward, who scored Brazil’s only goal from a penalty in added time, broke down in tears at the final whistle. Speaking to broadcaster GE TV, Neymar said his journey with the national team had come to an end, marking the close of a significant chapter in his career.

Neymar first joined the Brazil national team in 2010 under coach Mano Menezes and played in four World Cups—2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026. Despite winning the Confederations Cup and Olympic gold, he never managed to lift the World Cup trophy. His farewell came 16 years after his international debut, on the same U.S. soil where his journey began.

As Brazil’s all-time top scorer and one of the defining figures of his generation, Neymar’s departure marks the end of an era for the Seleção and leaves a lasting legacy in Brazilian football.