Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his immediate retirement from international football, ending his 23-year career with Portugal at the age of 41. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner confirmed his decision in an emotional statement shared on social media. Ronaldo said the time had come to hand over the iconic number 7 shirt he had worn throughout his international career. He reflected on a journey that began in August 2003 and admitted that walking away from international football had not been an easy decision.
Ronaldo retires as Portugal’s most-capped player, having made 234 appearances and scored a record 146 international goals. During his illustrious career, he captained Portugal to three major international trophies, including their maiden European Championship title in 2016. He also helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025. His achievements established him as one of Portugal’s greatest sporting figures and helped elevate the country's standing in international football.
Paying tribute to supporters, Ronaldo said his most cherished memories went beyond goals, records and trophies. He highlighted the emotional connection he had built with the Portuguese people. Ronaldo expressed gratitude to fans, saying that if he ever made them happy, it was all worth it. His retirement comes amid reported tensions with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, which are believed to have contributed to his decision.
Ronaldo had previously left the national team camp early after being named as an unused substitute in an international fixture. The incident reportedly resulted in a $286 fine and a 30-day suspension. Despite the controversy, the forward had initially indicated that he had no immediate plans to retire from international football. However, reports of a deteriorating relationship with Jesus have fuelled speculation that the disagreement played a role in bringing forward his departure.
Ronaldo had earlier indicated that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament. He scored three goals during Portugal’s campaign before their elimination in the round of 16. Over more than two decades, he represented Portugal at 12 major tournaments, establishing records that underline his extraordinary longevity and influence.
His 146 international goals remain a men's football record, while his 234 appearances make him the most-capped male international player. Ronaldo leaves international football with three major trophies, an unmatched goalscoring record and a legacy that has helped redefine Portugal’s ambitions on the global football stage. In his farewell message, Ronaldo urged the next generation of Portuguese footballers to keep dreaming and continue making history.
Ronaldo encouraged young players to believe it is possible to go where no one has gone before. He emphasized the need for new generations to dare to dream and never give up. With his retirement, Ronaldo closes an extraordinary chapter in Portuguese football history, leaving behind a lasting impact on the sport and the nation.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo retires as Portugal's most-capped player with 234 appearances and a record 146 international goals.
- Ronaldo's retirement comes amid reported tensions with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus.
- He leaves international football with three major trophies and an unmatched goalscoring record.
