MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay, 3rd September, 2024 (WAM) -- Uruguan footballer Luis Suárez will play his last game for his country on Friday, the Associated Press reported on Tuesday. He is Uruguay's all-time leading scorer with 69 goals in 142 matches.
Suárez was emotional as he announced he is ending a 17-year international career after the World Cup qualifier against Paraguay at Centenario Stadium.
“It hurts to say it, but Friday will be my last match with my country’s national team,” Suárez said late Monday, unable to hold back tears at a press conference.
“I am retiring because I want to step aside. I am 37 years old, there are a lot of talented players, and I know it would be difficult to get to the next World Cup. It is comforting to know I can retire on my terms and not have to retire due to injuries, or to not being called up. I want to say goodbye here, with my people.”
Suárez made his debut in 2007. He played in four World Cups and five Copa America. He helped to lead the team to the title at the 2011 Copa, where he scored twice in the semifinals and the match-winner in the final and was named player of the tournament.
Suárez will continue at Inter Miami, which he has previously said will be his last club. He's also had a stellar career at clubs including Barcelona, Liverpool, Ajax and Atletico Madrid.