Inter Miami forward Luis Suarez has officially announced his retirement from international football with Uruguay.

The 37-year-old striker revealed the news during a press conference on Monday, stating that he would step down from the national team after Uruguay’s upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Paraguay on Friday.

Suarez leaves behind an illustrious legacy as Uruguay’s all-time top scorer, having netted 69 goals in 142 appearances over the course of a 17-year international career.

The former star of Liverpool and Barcelona expressed pride in his decision, emphasising the importance of knowing when to walk away on his own terms.

“There is no greater satisfaction than recognising the right moment to retire, and fortunately, I am at peace with my choice,” Suarez said. “I want to step aside from the national team now, while it’s my decision, not due to injury or because I’m no longer being called up.”

Suarez admitted that at 37, the prospect of competing in another World Cup would be challenging. He explained that his decision allows him to retire with dignity, rather than being forced out by physical limitations. The striker noted that he’s grateful for the opportunity to bow out on his own terms.

Suarez made his international debut for Uruguay back in February 2007, in a 3-1 win over Colombia. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in Uruguay’s successes, including their Copa América triumph in 2011, and has been a key figure in numerous World Cup campaigns.

His contributions to the national team will be remembered as some of the most significant in Uruguay’s football history.