Cristiano Ronaldo Retires from International Football After 23 Years with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo Retires from International Football After 23 Years with Portugal

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 23-year career with the national team.

The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through a social media statement in which he confirmed that he was ready to hand over Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt to the next generation.

“The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team. I never felt it belonged to me alone. But for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it, and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world,” Ronaldo said.

He described the decision as difficult, explaining that it was not one he made with his mind alone but also with his heart.

Ronaldo’s international career began in August 2003, and he leaves the national team as its most capped player and leading goalscorer, with 234 appearances and 146 goals.

He captained Portugal to its first European Championship title in 2016, when the team defeated France in the final. He also played a central role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward also made history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first player to score at six different editions of the tournament.

Reflecting on his time with Portugal, Ronaldo said his greatest memories went beyond goals, records and trophies, pointing instead to the connection he built with supporters across the world.

“Goals fade. Trophies end up in museums. Records are eventually broken. But there is something that time can never erase: the place we hold in people’s hearts,” he stated.

He thanked his teammates, coaches, medical personnel, technical staff, family and Portuguese supporters for their contributions throughout his career.

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Ronaldo also acknowledged the difficult moments, including defeats and occasions when he felt he had not delivered what the Portuguese people expected.

“I made mistakes. I suffered. There were also moments when I couldn’t give the Portuguese people what they so desperately wanted. But I never gave up. And above all, I never stopped feeling proud to represent Portugal,” he said.

His announcement follows a period of tension involving Portugal’s head coach, Jorge Jesus, after Ronaldo left the national team camp without permission in September. The forward later explained that his departure followed disagreements over playing time.

He subsequently apologised and maintained that he remained available for national selection. The Portuguese Football Federation imposed a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine.

Despite the controversy, the federation paid tribute to the forward, describing him as an exceptional athlete, an inspiring leader and a symbol of the national team.

Coach Jorge Jesus also confirmed that he had spoken with Ronaldo about his international future and said he had asked him to remain with the team, while respecting his decision to retire.

Ronaldo’s departure closes one of the most decorated international careers in football history. His records of 146 goals and 234 appearances leave a significant benchmark for future generations of Portuguese players.

Although he will no longer represent Portugal, Ronaldo is expected to continue his club career with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, where he remains in pursuit of the 1,000-goal career milestone.