Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Mitch Duke retirement news has brought an end to a 13-year Australia men’s national football team career, with the 35-year-old striker finishing with 50 caps and 13 goals for his country.
Duke’s international career will be best remembered for his headed winner against Tunisia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a goal that helped Australia reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2006.
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Duke Calls Time On Australia Career
Duke also played in the 1-0 win over Denmark that sealed Australia’s place in the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
He later represented Australia at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, while also helping the team qualify for a sixth straight World Cup.
“After a lot of reflection, the time has come for me to officially announce my retirement from international football,” Duke said.
“As a kid growing up in Australia, I dreamed of wearing the green and gold just once. To have gone on to represent my country 50 times is a dream come true 50 times over, and a privilege I never took for granted.
“While I will cherish every memory, scoring for Australia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup remains the absolute highlight of my career.
“It has been the greatest honour of my life to pull on the Socceroos jersey and represent our nation.”
Praise For A Proven Servant
Australia coach Tony Popovic praised Duke after his role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.
“I’d like to congratulate Mitch Duke on an outstanding contribution to the Socceroos,” Popovic said.
“Not many players reach the 50-cap milestone, and fewer have scored at a FIFA World Cup.
“He gave absolutely everything in his bid to help us reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At all times, he was a fantastic professional.”
Football Australia chief executive Martin Kugeler said Duke represented the national team with pride.
“Mitch Duke embodied everything that Australians value in a footballer – resilience, determination, humility and an unwavering commitment to the team,” Kugeler said.
“Beyond his performances on the pitch, Mitch was a respected leader whose professionalism and character set an example for the next generation of Australian players.”
Duke will continue his club career with Machida Zelvia in Japan. Official national team updates are available through Football Australia.
