Jaromir Jagr announces retirement from international hockey

Jaromir Jagr announced his retirement from international competition following the Czech Republic's loss to Sweden in the bronze medal game at the 2014 IIHF World Hockey Championship.  

The decision was expected but Jagr, who signed a one-year deal with the New Jersey Devils after leading the club in scoring last season, has not provided any similar indication regarding his North American career. 

Despite admitting to some initial trepidation, the 43-year-old explained that his decision to participate in the rather drawn-out tournament was justified, expecting the 10-game run to benefit his aging body through the rigors of his looming 21st NHL season. 

Jagr remains hopeful that his decision to retire from national duty will be moot and a postseason obligation in New Jersey will prevent him from pondering an international comeback at the 2015 tournament in Prague.