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Ronaldo Retires from Portugal National Team After 23 Years — AI-generated representative image: An empty stadium with a Portugal number 7 jersey on the seats, reflecting Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international f

Editorial Team

The 41-year-old ends a record international career with 146 goals and Portugal's Euro 2016 triumph

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from the Portugal national team in a social media post, ending one of the most decorated international careers in football history. The 41-year-old said on Thursday that he will "hand back the number 7 shirt," closing a journey that began more than two decades ago and concluded after a falling out with coach Jorge Jesus.

The announcement draws a line under a career that redefined Portuguese football, with Ronaldo holding the all-time records for both international appearances and international goals. His departure follows the recent retirement of longtime rival Lionel Messi from Argentina, marking the end of an era in which the two players dominated the global game.

Key Announcement Details

Ronaldo addressed his decision with an emotional message, describing it as one made with both the head and the heart. "If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it," he said.

He thanked his family, the Portuguese people, and the teammates, coaches and staff he worked with during his 23-year international career, captioning the announcement video with the words, "Portugal will always be a part of me."

An Illustrious International Career

Ronaldo made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, holding the all-time records in both categories. He captained the national team to their first major trophy at Euro 2016 and helped them secure victories in the 2019 and 2025 Nations Leagues.

His final appearance with Portugal came on September 24 in a 1-0 win over Wales in the Nations League. Jesus kept him on the bench for the following match and indicated he did not plan to start him in the next one, prompting Ronaldo to leave the team's training camp. Jesus later said Ronaldo would be welcome back and that the decision to return was his to make.

Federation Response and Club Future

The Portuguese football federation released a statement expressing "deep gratitude and immense admiration" for Ronaldo's service to the country. "Cristiano Ronaldo has raised Portugal's profile and inspired generations of young people who dream of following in his footsteps; for many of us, he is the greatest player of all time!" the federation said.

The federation added that it intends to organise a tribute to Ronaldo in which fans and the country can once more celebrate a player who has given so much.

What Lies Ahead

Ronaldo will continue playing at club level, with expectations that he will finish his club career at the end of this season with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. He remains in pursuit of his 1,000th career goal and has currently scored 985.

Ronaldo Can Return to Portugal Squad If He Wants, Says Jesus

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus leaves the door open for Cristiano Ronaldo after the forward walked out of the national team camp amid a selection dispute.