Brazil legend and NWSL star Marta announces retirement from international duty

29 April 2024

Brazil icon Marta has announced that she will retire from international football this year, bringing to an end a legendary career spanning 22 years.

Marta announces this will be her last year with Brazil
Explains why she is 'very calm' about decision
Could go out on a high at Olympics

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marta debuted for the national team back in 2002 and is today widely regarded as the greatest player in the history of the women's game, largely due to her performances on the biggest stage with Brazil.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Sadly, the six-time FIFA World Player of the Year has never won a major title with her nation, largely due to a previous lack of investment in the team. She did, however, help them reach a World Cup final in 2007 and has two Olympic silver medals to her name. There is still a chance of winning gold this year too, at the Games in Paris.

WHAT MARTA SAID

Speaking to CNN, Marta said: “If I go to the Olympics, I'm going to enjoy every moment, because regardless of whether I go to the Olympics or not, this is my last year with the national team.

"As of 2025, there's no more Marta in the national team as an athlete, there isn't. This is my last year, and I can confirm that here. There comes a time when you have to understand that the time has come."

DID YOU KNOW?

The 38-year-old, who will continue to play for the Orlando Pride in the NWSL at club level, also explained why she is "very calm" about the decision to step away.

"I'm very optimistic about the development we're seeing with young athletes," she said. "We have a very qualified team, with very talented girls and, over the years, you'll see that it really is what I'm talking about, it's very fertile ground. For this reason, I feel very comfortable saying: ‘Look, I'm passing it on to you, I'm passing the baton, and you carry on this legacy’.”

WHAT NEXT FOR MARTA AND BRAZIL?

Brazil are in a tricky group with Spain, Japan and Nigeria at the Olympics this summer and Marta will hope she can earn a spot on the roster as she looks to go out on a high on the international stage.