Former Liverpool and Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has officially announced his retirement from international football.
The 37-year-old will make his final appearance for Uruguay in their World Cup qualifier against Paraguay this Friday in Montevideo. In an emotional press conference, Suarez tearfully confirmed his decision, reflecting on a remarkable 17-year international career that began in 2007.
Suarez expressed that his decision to retire was made with a sense of peace, knowing he had given his all to the national team. He emphasized the pride he feels in choosing to step down on his own terms, while still capable, rather than being forced out by injury or age.
Suarez also shared that a key factor in his decision to continue playing after the 2024 Copa America was his desire for his children to witness his final match in front of Uruguayan fans.
Suarez will retire as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer, having netted 69 goals in 142 appearances. He played a pivotal role in a golden era for the national team, most notably helping them secure the Copa America title in 2011.
While Suarez’s career has been filled with brilliant moments on the field, it has also been marred by controversy, including the infamous handball incident during the 2010 World Cup and the biting incident involving Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini in 2014. Despite these controversies, Suarez’s impact on football and his contributions to Uruguay’s success will be remembered for years to come.