Maaja Bratka, a prominent player of the Estonian women's basketball national team, has announced her retirement from international play, with her final game scheduled against Latvia during the European Championship qualifiers in Tallinn. Bratka expressed her emotional thoughts related to the match, highlighting the bond she has formed with her teammates over the years. She noted that despite her desire to finish her career positively, the physical strain of competing at this level has become too much for her body to handle.

Throughout her 15-year career representing Estonia, Bratka participated in 68 games. She spoke candidly about the toll that intense schedules and multiple games within a short window have taken on her, saying that while she has managed her club commitments effectively, the demands of the national team have proved too much. This forthcoming match is particularly significant not only for her as a player but also for her teammates who will continue without her experience on the court.

Bratka has been a vital player for her club in Manchester, where she serves as the second-highest scorer and contributes to their solid position in the British league. However, as she prepares to say goodbye to the national team, there is speculation about her future in club basketball, especially concerning a potential contract renewal at the season's end. This transition marks a bittersweet moment in her life as she balances her successful club career with the conclusion of her international representation.