Less than two months after setting a FIFA World Cup™ record, Egypt’s veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary has announced his retirement from international football.

At 45, El Hadary became the oldest player in World Cup history when he played against Saudi Arabia at Russia 2018. Although Egypt lost the match, El Hadary saved a first-half penalty in the final outing for the Pharaohs on their return to the World Cup following a 28-year absence.

El Hadary, who debuted for Egypt in 1996, won four CAF Africa Cup of Nations titles.

"I am very proud to have played with the national team in 159 internationals, participating in unprecedented achievements," El Hadary said on Monday.