Eden Hazard of Belgium has announced his retirement from international competition following his team’s sad World Cup group-stage exit.
The 31-year-old forward participated in each of Belgium’s three Group F games but failed to score as third-placed Belgium defeated Canada, fell to Morocco, and drew 0-0 with Croatia.
In 126 games since making his international debut in 2008, Hazard has scored 33 goals. He aided Belgium in winning the third-place playoff against England and advancing to the 2018 World Cup semifinals, where they fell to eventual champions France.
“I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready,” Hazard wrote on Instagram. “A page turns today… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008… I will miss you.”
Following a disappointing tournament in Qatar for the second-ranked team in the world, Belgium coach Roberto Martinez also resigned from his position.