Arsenal defender Jen Beattie has announced her retirement from the Scotland national team.
The centre-back is retiring after a 15-year international career in which she won 143 caps for her country after making her senior debut aged 16.
The 31-year-old scored 24 goals for Scotland, who failed to qualify for this summer’s World Cup.
“Representing Scotland has been an absolute honor and a dream come true,” said Beattie.
“Thank you so much to every staff member and player who made my experiences so memorable and enjoyable. I made friends for life.
“I’ve been on the national team for almost half my life and it’s been amazing to help grow the game.”
Beattie, who received an MBE in December, is currently in his second stint with the Gunners.
The defender, who also played in the Women’s Super League for Manchester City, made her Scottish Under-19 debut aged 14, before making her senior debut in March 2008.
In 2011, she scored in a 2-0 win over England, Scotland’s first victory over neighbors in a women’s international since 1977.
She helped her country reach its first major women’s tournament at the 2017 European Championships, but missed it through injury.
Beattie played at the 2019 World Cup in France, scoring in the 3-3 draw with Argentina as Scotland were knocked out in the group stage.
She helped Scotland reach the European play-offs to qualify for the 2023 tournament in Australia and New Zealand, where they were beaten by Ireland.
Scotland head coach Pedro Martinez Losa said: “Jen’s contribution to women’s football in Scotland deserves the highest recognition and it was a privilege to work with her.
“On behalf of everyone involved in women’s football in Scotland, I would like to thank Jen for all she has done for the game. She has been a pleasure to work with and the legacy she will leave will be long lasting. duration.
“This is not a goodbye but the start of a new chapter in her career, a chapter in which she can always count on my support.”
The defender continued her career for club and country despite being diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2020 and undergoing radiotherapy.
Beattie received the Helen Rollason award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2021 ceremony for her work following her cancer diagnosis.
