LISBON, November 6:
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 23-year association with Portugal that transformed him from a teenage prodigy into one of the most decorated players in the history of the international game.
The 41-year-old forward confirmed his decision in a video message posted on social media on Thursday, saying he would relinquish Portugalās iconic No. 7 shirt following the November international break. His announcement marks the conclusion of an era for Portuguese football, with Ronaldo having represented his country 234 times and scored a record 146 international goals.
“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the No. 7 shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo said. He added that wearing the shirt for 23 years had been both a privilege and a responsibility.
Ronaldo’s international journey began in 2003, before Portugal hosted Euro 2004. He quickly emerged as one of the country’s most influential players, eventually succeeding as captain and becoming the central figure in its transformation into a major force in international football.
His defining achievement came at Euro 2016 in France, where Portugal secured its first European Championship title. Although Ronaldo was forced off injured during the final against France, he remained involved from the sidelines as his teammates completed a historic 1-0 victory after extra time.
He subsequently captained Portugal to Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, further strengthening his standing in the national team’s history.
Yet Ronaldo’s international career was not without setbacks. The demands of elite football, the pressure of leadership and the challenge of sustaining his extraordinary standards over two decades accompanied his rise. His departure also follows a recent disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus, although he had subsequently apologised and a return to the national side had been discussed.
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, Ronaldo scored three goals as Portugal reached the knockout stages before being eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the round of 16.
His retirement announcement comes shortly after Lionel Messi’s final international appearance for Argentina last month, bringing the international careers of two defining figures of modern football towards a close.
The Portuguese Football Federation has said it will organise a fitting tribute to recognise Ronaldo’s contribution to the national team.
Ronaldo, however, is not retiring from professional football. He remains contracted to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr until June 2027 and is expected to continue his club career.
For Portugal, the challenge now extends beyond replacing a prolific goalscorer. The departure of its long-serving captain closes a chapter in which individual excellence and national success became closely intertwined. The No. 7 shirt may pass to another player, but Ronaldo’s place in Portuguese football history will remain.