It was after Romania's victory in the return match against Northern Macedonia, which secured the World Cup ticket, that national team captain Adi Vasile surprisingly announced that star Cristina Neagu is taking a break from the national team.
The 32-year-old right-hander plays for the Romanian big club CSM Bucharest and has been named the world's best player four times.
In a letter to the players of the Romanian national team, she explains what is behind her decision.
Severe knee injury 2018
"I am tired both physically and mentally and have had some injuries in recent years.
I feel this is a good time to rest and then come back.
From next year, I will continue to play for the national team ", writes Neagu according to Romanian media.
During the European Championships 2018, Neagu suffered a serious knee injury and has since had some injuries.
She misses this autumn's European Championship qualifiers but says herself that she aims to play with the club team if her body allows.