Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football, the Portuguese career ends sadly
Cristiano Ronaldo has brought the curtain down on his 23-year international career, announcing his departure from Portugal through an emotional video shared on social media. The 41-year-old leaves behind a legacy of records, trophies and unforgettable moments, wearing the national team’s iconic number 7 jersey since his debut in 2003.
In his message to the Portuguese people, Ronaldo described the decision as one that was difficult to make and insisted that his journey with the national team had changed his life forever. He also reflected on the people who have stood behind him throughout his career, saying that representing Portugal has always meant more than football.
“Today my journey on the pitch with the national team comes to an end. I leave with my head held high, proud of the journey I have come and knowing that I gave everything I had for Portugal,” Ronaldo said.
“The number 7 shirt remains, the pride of having worn it will always be mine. Portugal will be in me forever. Forever, Cristiano Ronaldo.”
The announcement comes after a turbulent period involving Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo’s departure from the national team camp in October raised questions about his future, with the forward and his former manager Al Nassr publicly at odds over his role in the team.
THE CONTROVERSY BEHIND HIS EXIT
The slump began after Ronaldo was left on the bench during Portugal’s Nations League victory over Norway. The striker claimed Jesus had promised him 30 minutes of game time before changing his mind, describing it as a breach of trust.
Ronaldo subsequently left the training camp ahead of Portugal’s match against Denmark. Jesus, meanwhile, denied that there was any incident between them and claimed that the selection of the team was his responsibility. Ronaldo later apologized to his teammates and supporters for leaving the camp and admitted he could be punished by the Portuguese Football Federation.
The latest announcement marks the end of a relationship that spanned more than two decades and made Ronaldo the face of Portuguese football.
CRISTIANO RONALDO’S PORTUGAL CAREER IN NUMBERS
Ronaldo made his senior debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003. He leaves as the most played player and top scorer in men’s international football with 146 goals in 234 matches.
His main achievements with Portugal include:
- Euro 2016: Led Portugal to their first European Championship title.
- Nations League 2019: Portugal captain to inaugural title.
- Nations League 2025: Helped Portugal win their second Nations League crown.
- International goals: 146, most by any player in men’s international football.
- International participation: 234, men’s world record.
- World Cup Record: In 2026, he became the first player to score in six different editions of the tournament.
Ronaldo’s international chapter may be over, but his pursuit of another historic milestone continues. Forward Al Nassr is closing in on 1,000 career goals, taking his total to 979 as of the latest figures available.
Ronaldo, who spent 23 years chasing records in Portugal’s colours, now leaves the national team with the No.7 shirt handed down to the next generation, but his place in its history is firmly secured.
This is a developing story. It will be updated.
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