(Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team after 23 years of international football. Photo: Reuters.)
Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the national team.
The 41-year-old striker made the announcement in an emotional social media video on Thursday, November 5, saying he would hand over Portugal’s iconic number 7 shirt after the November international break.
Ronaldo has represented Portugal 234 times, scoring 146 goals, making him the leading international appearance holder and top international goalscorer in men’s football.
‘Time to Pass the Number 7 Shirt to the Future’
In his announcement video, Ronaldo reflected on the responsibility and pride of wearing Portugal’s number 7 shirt for more than two decades.
“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. Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future,” he said.
He admitted that the decision was difficult, describing it as something guided by both his head and his heart.
“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” Ronaldo said.
He also thanked supporters, saying that if his goals had brought happiness, pride or unforgettable moments to people, his journey had been worthwhile.
A Historic Career with Portugal
Ronaldo made his international debut in 2003 and went on to become one of the most successful players in Portugal’s football history.
He captained the country to its first major international trophy at Euro 2016 and later helped Portugal win the Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
His records of 234 international appearances and 146 goals place him at the top of the men’s international football charts.
Disagreement with Coach Jorge Jesus
The retirement announcement follows a reported disagreement with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus in October.
Ronaldo reportedly left the national team camp after the coach decided not to use him in a Nations League match. Following the incident, the Portuguese Football Federation suspended him for 30 days.
Despite the reported dispute, Ronaldo expressed his lasting connection with the country in the caption accompanying his announcement video.
“Portugal will always be a part of me,” he wrote.
His retirement marks the end of a remarkable international chapter for one of football’s most recognisable players.
