Brazilian Soccer Icon Marta Announces Retirement from International Football

Brazilian soccer star Marta, who plays for Orlando Pride, announced that she will be retiring from international soccer this year. In an interview with CNN Brasil, scheduled to air on Sunday, April 28, she revealed her decision.

At 38 years old, Marta holds the title of Brazil's all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing both male and female players with a total of 115 goals. She has also participated in six World Cup tournaments throughout her career.

If Marta is chosen to represent Brazil at the Paris 2024 Olympics, it would mark her sixth time participating in the Games.

In an interview with CNN Brasil, Marta expressed her excitement about the prospect of competing in the Olympics. She mentioned that if given the opportunity, she would cherish every moment, especially since this year would be her final one with the national team. Marta also shared that starting in 2025, she will no longer be part of the national team as an athlete.

The legendary forward says she is at peace with the decision and optimistic about the future of Brazil and the young athletes in the national women’s soccer team.

Jason Lancaster/CNN/Getty

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Marta, Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer, has become a legendary figure in her country, earning the title of an 'icon'. She has set a remarkable example of excellence on the field. In a recent statement, Marta announced that this would be her final year playing professional soccer. She expressed her confidence in the younger generation of athletes and embraced the transition with optimism.

Marta has made history by winning the FIFA Player of the Year award six times, more than any other women's player. She achieved this remarkable feat by winning the award five years in a row from 2006 to 2010.

In addition to her FIFA Player of the Year accolades, Marta has also achieved success in other prestigious competitions. She has claimed victory in the Women's Champions League, the Copa Libertadores Femenina, and was honored with the Golden Boot and Golden Ball awards as the top scorer and best player at the 2007 Women's World Cup.

In 2019, Marta made history by becoming the first player ever to score at five World Cups. Her 17 goals in World Cup matches are the most by any player in the history of men's and women's soccer.

Despite winning the Copa América Femenina three times, Marta is still missing the major global titles with her national team. Three times she has come close to glory with Brazil, finishing as runners-up in the 2007 Women's World Cup final and losing in the Olympic gold medal match twice.

The Olympic Games take place in Paris from July 26 until August 11.

Editor's P/S:

Marta's retirement marks the end of an illustrious career that has spanned over two decades. Her unparalleled achievements, including six FIFA Player of the Year awards and a record-breaking 17 World Cup goals, have cemented her status as a global icon. Beyond her on-field brilliance, Marta has also been a tireless advocate for women's soccer, using her platform to inspire young athletes and promote equality in the sport.

As she transitions into the next chapter of her life, Marta leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and empower generations to come. Her unwavering determination, exceptional talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence will forever be etched in the annals of soccer history. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors and thank her for the countless memories she has given us throughout her remarkable career.