Xabi Alonso: Real Madrid midfielder retires from Spain duty

Xabi Alonso's last game for Spain was against Australia at the 2014 World Cup

Real Madrid's Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso has announced his retirement from international football.

The 32-year-old played 114 times for Spain, winning the 2010 World Cup and two European championships.

Alonso was part of the squad that lost 5-1 to Netherlands at the World Cup in Brazil as the defending champions went out in the group stage.

He tweeted: "I announce my retirement from international football. It's been an enormous honour for 11 great years."

Alonso was part of a Spain team that dominated world football following their first European championship victory in 2008.

La Roja won the World Cup two years later and added another European title in 2012.

Xavi Hernandez and Carles Puyol have both retired from Spain duty

Vicente del Bosque's Spain were among the favourites to win the World Cup this summer and their shock early exit signalled the end of an era for the players.

Barcelona midfielder Xavi, 34, announced his retirement from international football earlier this month.

Alonso made his Spain debut as a Real Sociedad player against Ecuador in April 2003.

The former Liverpool player played a part in all three games at the 2014 World Cup, signing off with a 3-0 win against Australia.