Keylor Navas Retires from Costa Rica National Team After 16-Year Career
Costa Rica's veteran goalkeeper, Keylor Navas, has officially announced his retirement from the national team after an illustrious 16-year career. With over 100 international appearances to his name, Navas leaves behind a legacy marked by three FIFA World Cup tournaments.
In a heartfelt video shared on his official social media accounts, the 37-year-old expressed gratitude for the memories created during his tenure. Navas, widely regarded as Costa Rica's finest goalkeeper, notably guided his team to the quarterfinals of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, followed by appearances in Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.
Navas's club career includes a successful stint with Real Madrid, where he clinched three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles along with one La Liga and one Copa del Rey trophy. After five seasons in Spain, Navas transitioned to Paris Saint-Germain in France, where he spent four seasons.
While Navas was anticipated to participate in the upcoming Copa América, his plans for the tournament remain uncertain. The Associated Press has reached out to the Costa Rican Soccer Federation for clarification on Navas's participation.
In his farewell message, Navas expressed gratitude for representing Costa Rica on the global stage, acknowledging the country's size yet immense spirit. "This stage of my life with the national team has come to an end," Navas stated, concluding his remarkable journey with the Costa Rica national team.