“Luis Suarez Calls It a Day: Uruguay Striker Announces International Retirement”

Luis Suarez, Uruguay’s prolific striker, announced his international retirement on Monday, marking the end of a remarkable 17-year career with his national team. At 37 years old, Suarez leaves the international stage as Uruguay’s all-time top scorer with 69 goals from 142 caps.

Suarez made his debut for Uruguay in 2007 and played a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the 2010 World Cup semifinals and their victory in the Copa America a year later. In an emotional press conference, Suarez revealed that his final match for the national team will be on Friday against Paraguay at the Centenario stadium in Montevideo, part of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Uruguay will also face Venezuela four days later.

Reflecting on his decision, Suarez expressed comfort in retiring on his own terms, rather than due to injury or exclusion. “The fact that this is my decision and not because of injuries or being left out for various reasons gives me a lot of comfort. It’s difficult, but it gives me peace of mind knowing that I’ve given my all until the last game, and that fire has not gradually dimmed,” Suarez shared.

Suarez recently scored a crucial stoppage-time goal against Canada in the Copa America, helping Uruguay secure third place. He noted that one of his goals was to prove he could still contribute meaningfully to the team. “My dream was for my children to see me win something important with the national team… that last goal was very special for them, even though it wasn’t a trophy to take home,” he said.

Suarez also highlighted his desire to retire in front of his home fans. “I wanted to show people that I can still contribute. After the Copa America, I could have retired, but I wanted to do it with my people, in my stadium. I want my children to experience this. Saying goodbye to the fans here is something I don’t know if many have done,” he added.

Having joined Inter Miami last year, Suarez has confirmed that it will be his final club, reuniting with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba in Major League Soccer.