Luis Suárez has announced his retirement from the Uruguay national team during a press conference today, confirming that he will conclude his international career following the World Cup qualifier against Paraguay on Friday. The former Liverpool and Barcelona striker, now playing with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), leaves as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer, having netted 69 goals in 142 appearances over a span of 17 years.
In an emotional statement, the 37-year-old Suárez expressed his belief that retiring on his own terms is a source of pride. “There is no better pride in oneself than knowing when the right moment to retire is,” he said. He emphasized that rather than being forced out by injuries or a lack of selection, he feels ready to step aside. “It comforts me a lot that I can retire now, feeling that I gave my all,” he added.
Suárez made his senior debut for the national team on February 8, 2007, in a victory over Colombia. He quickly became a key player, notably helping Uruguay qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where he gained notoriety for his handball in the quarterfinal match against Ghana, which led to a missed penalty by Asamoah Gyan and ultimately allowed Uruguay to advance.
Throughout his career, Suárez participated in four World Cups and five Copa Américas, playing a crucial role in Uruguay’s triumph in the 2011 Copa América, where he was named MVP of the tournament. His most recent international match came during the 2024 Copa América, where he featured in a third-place playoff against Canada.
Currently thriving at Inter Miami alongside stars like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets, Suárez has continued to perform at a high level, recently scoring twice in a match against Chicago Fire FC, bringing his season total to 16 goals.