Luis Suárez Announces Retirement from International Football
Prince Jean
Sep 3, 2024
Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez has officially announced his retirement from international football, with his final game set to be against Paraguay in an upcoming World Cup qualifier. Credit:gettyimages
At 37, Suárez retires as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer, boasting an impressive record of 69 goals in 142 appearances. The legendary forward, visibly emotional during his announcement, expressed that "this is the right time" to step away from international play. He fondly recalled his debut in 2007 against Colombia, reflecting on his journey from a 19-year-old newcomer to a seasoned veteran.
Suárez's international career is marked by participation in nine major tournaments, including four World Cups and five Copa Americas. His infamous handball incident during the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals remains one of the most talked-about moments in football history. Although he received a red card, Uruguay ultimately advanced to the semifinals after a dramatic penalty shootout.
Suárez's leadership was pivotal in Uruguay's 2011 Copa America victory, where he emerged as the tournament's second-highest scorer. Despite his successes, his career was not without controversy, notably the four-month ban following the 2014 World Cup for biting an opponent.
Reflecting on his career, Suárez acknowledged the challenges and setbacks but expressed pride in his contributions to Uruguayan football. "We went through difficult moments, especially after my mistake in 2014, but I remain proud of what we achieved,"
he said.
Suárez’s retirement signals the end of an era for Uruguay, as he departs as one of the most prolific and polarizing figures in the nation's football history.
