Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an illustrious 23-year career with the Portugal national team to an end.
The 41-year-old forward made the announcement in an emotional video shared on social media, reflecting on his remarkable journey, historic achievements and the sacrifices he made while representing his country.
Ronaldo bows out as the leading goalscorer in men’s international football, having scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal since making his senior debut in August 2003.
The announcement marks the end of an era for Portuguese football, with the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star having become one of the most influential figures in the country’s sporting history.
In his farewell message, Ronaldo said the time had come to hand over the iconic number seven shirt to the next generation, describing his decision as difficult but necessary.
“To the Portuguese people, the day has come to hand back the number 7 shirt of the national team that belongs to us all,” he said.
He explained that wearing the shirt for 23 years had been both a privilege and a responsibility, adding that he had always considered it an honour to represent Portugal on football’s biggest stages.
Ronaldo said his international career had been about much more than goals, trophies and individual records, pointing to the emotional connection he developed with Portuguese supporters around the world.
“When I think of everything I have experienced with the national team, I do not just see matches, goals, records or trophies. I see people,” he reflected.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged that his journey had been filled with unforgettable victories as well as painful defeats. However, he insisted that the disappointments never weakened his commitment or pride in representing his country.
He also recalled his determination to constantly improve, explaining that his ambition had always been to win, become the best and make history with the national team.
Throughout his career, Ronaldo helped Portugal achieve significant milestones, including their historic triumph at the 2016 UEFA European Championship in France.
Portugal defeated the host nation 1-0 in the final to secure their first major international trophy. Although Ronaldo was forced off through injury during the match, he continued to encourage his teammates from the sidelines as they secured the historic victory.
He was also part of Portugal’s success in the UEFA Nations League, winning the inaugural competition in 2019 and adding another title in 2025.
Despite these achievements, winning the FIFA World Cup remained the major international honour missing from his decorated career.
In his farewell message, Ronaldo paid tribute to his teammates, coaches, technical staff and everyone who contributed to his journey with the national team.
He particularly thanked those who worked behind the scenes, including medical personnel, physiotherapists, kit managers and other officials whose contributions often went unnoticed.
He also expressed appreciation to his family for supporting him through the demands of international football, acknowledging the sacrifices they made during his many years of service to Portugal.
Ronaldo further encouraged young Portuguese footballers to believe in their abilities and continue pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve.
He said the country needed emerging players who were prepared to dream, work hard and create new moments of national pride.
One of the most touching parts of his message was his reflection on the Portuguese national anthem and the unity it creates among supporters.
He recalled looking around stadiums and seeing children, parents and grandparents who had travelled long distances to support the team.
For those moments, he said, differences disappeared as everyone came together behind one common passion: Portugal.
“There are no clubs, no colours, no classes, no professions, no opinions. There is only one passion: Portugal,” he said.
Ronaldo also made it clear that retiring from international football would not end his relationship with the national team.
He said he would continue supporting Portugal, celebrating its victories and sharing in the disappointments that come with following the national side.
His departure comes amid reported tensions with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus during the Nations League period, which reportedly resulted in his departure from the training camp and a suspension.
The development had raised questions about his future with the national team, although his latest announcement now brings clarity to his international career.
Ronaldo’s retirement leaves Portugal with the responsibility of moving forward without one of its most recognisable leaders and greatest footballers.
His influence on the national team has extended beyond his goalscoring records, with his leadership, professionalism and competitive mentality helping shape an important period in Portuguese football.
For millions of supporters, his departure will mark the end of a remarkable chapter that began when a young footballer from Madeira first wore the national team shirt in 2003.
Concluding his farewell message, Ronaldo said he was leaving with his head held high, satisfied that he had given everything he could for his country.
“I have spent my life working to be the best player in the world. Today, I understand that the greatest victory was earning the right to represent the most beautiful country in the world,” he said.
He thanked Portuguese supporters for believing in him and allowing him to fulfil a childhood dream.
Although the number seven shirt will pass to another generation, Ronaldo said the pride of having worn it would remain with him forever.
“Portugal will always be inside me. See you soon,” he concluded.
