119 matches and 53 goals, a record that makes him England's all-time leading goalscorer, sees Rooney take his place among the very best to have pulled on the Three Lions jersey.
His decision to bow out comes not at low ebb of last season, dropped from the squad to face Scotland and France after gradually falling down the pecking order at Manchester United, but amongst the high of his return to Everton and two goals in two Premier League matches.
That, and the sharpness he has shown for the Toffees in their hectic start to the new campaign, convinced Gareth Southgate that Rooney was ready for a recall to the ranks for the upcoming World Cup qualifiying double-header.
An easy decision, perhaps, for the England boss at this stage but one that may have become more difficult as the season rolled on.
Rooney has made the decision for him, saying in a statement on Wednesday: "I will always remain a passionate England fan.
"One of my very few regrets is not to have been part of a successful England tournament side.
"Hopefully the exciting players Gareth is bringing through can take that ambition further and I hope everyone will get behind the team."