Emotional Melo calls for united country, says 'this is the end' of Olympic career

The most decorated career in USA Basketball history has come to an end.

Carmelo Anthony may still have plenty left in his NBA tank, but the nine-time All-Star seemingly closed the curtain on his illustrious international career Sunday, just moments after securing a third consecutive Olympic gold medal.

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"I know this is the end," Anthony said during a postgame interview on NBC when asked why this Olympic triumph was so special for him. "This is it for me."

Anthony - who was part of the disappointing, bronze-medalist team in 2004 and this summer became the first American man to suit up in four Olympic basketball tournaments - thanked USA Basketball director Jerry Colangelo and head coach Mike Krzyzewski for allowing him the opportunity to be a leader for his national team and country.

An obviously emotional 'Melo, who has been one of the most outspoken athletes in the wake of racial tensions in the U.S., also delivered a heartfelt message to the nation. "In spite of everything that's going on right now in our country, we've gotta be united," Anthony said shortly after stepping away from the microphone to compose himself.