Pepe, a defender for Portugal, has quit football, the 41-year-old said Thursday.

When Pepe played his last game, it was at Euro 2024, where France beat Portugal on penalties in the quarterfinals. He was the oldest player to ever play at a European Championship playoffs.

“I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom to be able to continue my journey,” Pepe said in a video on social media that looked back at his career and made him cry.

“I also want to thank all the presidents who put their faith in me and knew I could do my job.” Thank you to all the staff at the clubs I’ve been to. You are what the clubs and the national team are all about.

“Thanks to everyone in the background as well.” To everyone, I want to say thank you and give you a big hug. Thank you all very much.”

Pepe played 141 times for his country and helped them win the 2016 Euros. He also won three LaLiga titles, three Champions League titles, and two Club World Cups during his 10 years at Real Madrid.

Pepe signed with Real Madrid from Porto in 2007 and then went back to the Portuguese club in 2019 to finish his career. During his two stays there, he won four Primeira Liga titles.