Uruguay legend Luis Suarez announces retirement ahead of FIFA WC qualifiers clash in emotional press conference

Uruguay's legendary striker Luis Suarez has announced his retirement from international football. The 37-year-old said that the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Paraguay on September 6 will be his last match wearing Uruguay colours.
 

"There is no better pride in oneself than knowing when the right moment to retire is, and luckily I am confident that I am retiring from the national team because I want to take a step aside...I am 37 years old, and I know that it is very difficult to get to the next World Cup. It comforts me a lot that I can retire and not for my injuries to retire me, or to stop being called up," an emotional Suarez said in the press conference. 
 

"For me individually, it is very helpful for me to want to take that step aside and feel ready. It is difficult because the decision was not easy. But I go with the peace of mind that until the last game I gave my all, and that the flame did not burn out slowly and that is why I made the decision that it should be now," Suarez added.

Suarez’s career

Suarez made his international debut for the senior side in 2007. He rose through the ranks and played a major role in ensuring Uruguay play in the FIFA World Cup 2010. His handball in the quarterfinal clash against Ghana is considered as one of the most iconic moments as the game headed into penalties. Saurez got the red card but Uruguay won on penalties. In his absence Uruguay were beaten 3-2 by Netherlands in the semifinal.

ALSO READ: Star javelin thrower Sumit Antil breaks his own Paralympics record in Paris to win second consecutive gold medals
 

Over the years, Suarez became a regular member of Barcelona as well and played alongside Lionel Messi from 2014 to 2020. He has played for Ajax, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid and Gremio as well. Currently, he is playing alongside Messi for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS).

ALSO READ: Paris Paralympics: After several defeats against same opponent, Nithya Sri Sivan overcomes inner demons to win bronze in badminton SH6 category
 

He has represented Uruguay in four World Cups and five Copa America tournaments. In 2011, Uruguyay won the oldest continental championship in 2011. The last time he played for Uruguay was in Copa America 2024. He scored a penalty in the shootout against Canada as Uruguay won the third-place match. Suarez will retire as the leading run-scorer for Uruguay. 
 

MORE ON SPORTS TAK:

EXCLUSIVE | 'It's a message for those who used to taunt me': Preethi Pal slams her family's critics after scripting history in Paralympics 2024
Paris Paralympics: Discus thrower Yogesh Kathuniya wins silver medal again with season best throw