Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning more than two decades.
The 41-year-old confirmed his decision in an emotional video and message shared on social media on Thursday, November 5, saying it was time to hand over Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt.
“Today is the day to hand back the number seven shirt of the national team,” Ronaldo said, reflecting on the 23 years he spent representing his country.
He added that the decision was not an easy one, explaining that some choices are made with both the head and the heart.
Ronaldo made his senior international debut in August 2003 and went on to become Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer and appearance-maker, with 146 goals in 234 appearances.
His international career included five European Championships and six FIFA World Cup tournaments. His greatest achievement with Portugal came in 2016, when he captained the country to its first European Championship title.
The announcement follows a turbulent period involving head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp in September after being an unused substitute in a UEFA Nations League match against Norway.
The disagreement raised questions about his international future, although Ronaldo had subsequently insisted that he remained available for selection.
His retirement announcement now brings a close to one of the longest and most decorated careers in international football.
Ronaldo said he would continue supporting Portugal and celebrating the national team’s successes, even though his time on the pitch for his country had come to an end.
