Buehlertal, Germany ? David Beckham quit as England captain Sunday, the morning after his team went out in the World Cup quarterfinals on penalties to Portugal.

A tearful Beckham, wearing a suit and tie, read a statement to a crowded news conference at England’s training camp.

“I have lived the dream,” he said. “I am extremely proud to have worn the armband and been captain of England and for that, I will always be grateful.”

He stressed that he wanted to continue playing for the national team.

On Sunday, Beckham said he felt “the time is right to pass on the armband as we enter in a new era” under new coach Steve McClaren.