Brazilian soccer icon Marta is set to step down from her international duties, leaving her participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics uncertain.

Marta, the iconic number 10 of Brazil, showcased her emotions in the second half of the third-place match against Japan during the 2024 SheBelieves Cup at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio. The 38-year-old football legend has announced that she will be retiring from international football this year, bringing an end to a remarkable career that has spanned over two decades.

Marta, who has been awarded the FIFA World Player of the Year title six times, holds the record for the most goals scored in both men’s and women’s football for Brazil.

In an interview with CNN Esportes S/A, Marta confirmed her retirement plans, stating, “This is my last year, and I can already confirm it here. There is a moment when we have to understand that the time has come.” Despite her decision, Marta expressed her peace of mind, highlighting the promising future of Brazil’s national team and the abundance of young, talented players in the pipeline.

Marta expressed her confidence in the development of young athletes, stating, “I am very calm about this because I see with great optimism this development that we are having in relation to young athletes. We have a really qualified team with really talented girls who, as the years go by, you will see what I’m talking about. Because of this, I feel very comfortable saying: ‘Listen, I’m passing on to you, I’m going to pass on the baton and you continue to carry on this legacy’.”

Throughout her illustrious career, Marta has participated in five Olympics, earning silver medals at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, where Brazil fell short against the United States on both occasions. Marta expressed her intention to savor every moment if she participates in the upcoming Olympics, as it will mark her final year with the national team. She stated, “There will be no more Marta from 2025 in the national team as an athlete.”

Marta’s departure from international football became evident during her emotional farewell from the World Cup last year, when Brazil failed to progress to the knockout stage. Tearfully addressing a room full of reporters, she urged the new generation to carry on the legacy, saying, “We ask the new generation to continue where we left off: continue to inspire even more girls and boys, no matter what age they are.”

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport, Marta received a FIFA Special Award in January for her more than 20 years of “stellar service.” Additionally, FIFA has announced the introduction of the “Marta Award” from 2025 onwards, which will honor the best goal scored in women’s football.

While retiring from international duty, Marta will continue to play for the Orlando Pride, where she has been contracted since 2017. The team has remained undefeated this season, showcasing Marta’s enduring impact on the field.