Brazilian forward Neymar, the all-time leading scorer for the national team, announced in an interview that he is retiring from international football after 16 years, according to sports journalist Ben Goldfriend (N12). His career highlights include winning the 2013 Confederations Cup and an Olympic gold medal in Rio 2016.
Neymar has officially announced his retirement from the Brazil national team in a new interview published by N12, as reported by sports journalist Ben Goldfriend. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, said he no longer wants the yellow shirt, bringing a definitive end to his 16-year international career. This follows earlier reports that emerged on Wednesday afternoon.
The story first broke at 12:25 Jerusalem when ynet reported Neymar's retirement. Within minutes, N12's Ben Goldfriend reported the player's confirmation, quoting Neymar: 'I gave my blood and my life, but now I don't want it anymore.' The Zioneer then published a fuller report at 13:35 Jerusalem, noting that Neymar had confirmed his intention and hinted at a possible full retirement from football. The new interview provides the formal announcement and additional context on his decision.
Neymar ends his 16-year international career as Brazil's all-time leading scorer. He led the team to a Confederations Cup title in 2013 and an Olympic gold medal on home soil in Rio 2016. As The Zioneer reported earlier this month, Neymar's World Cup journey in 2026 ended with a round-of-16 defeat to Norway, after which he first hinted at retirement.
It remains unclear whether Neymar will also retire from professional football altogether. Reports in Brazil, as noted by N12, suggest he may step away from club football as well, but no formal announcement has been made.
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