Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the Portuguese national team. The 41-year-old captain made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, via a social media video and statement. Ronaldo departs as the all-time leading scorer and most-capped player in men's international football history, with 146 goals across 234 appearances.
During his tenure, Ronaldo captained Portugal to their first major title at Euro 2016 and lifted two UEFA Nations League trophies in 2019 and 2025. He made his senior debut as an 18-year-old against Kazakhstan in August 2003 and has since become the most decorated international figure in history. Ronaldo's career with Portugal has been marked by numerous achievements, including six World Cup appearances and a reputation as one of the greatest players of all time.
In an emotional message addressed to millions of supporters worldwide, Ronaldo reflected on his path and the decision to retire. He noted that while trophies belong in museums and records will eventually be broken, the emotional connection with supporters endures forever. Ronaldo stated that Portugal will always be a part of him and that the time has come to pass it on to the future.
Ronaldo's announcement comes on the heels of a publicized rift during the October international camp. After learning he would be benched during a Nations League fixture against Norway, Ronaldo departed the team base early, leading to a temporary 30-day suspension by the Portuguese Football Federation. Despite speculation that he might return for one final competitive run, the legendary forward elected to end his international career cleanly.
His final competitive appearance in a Portugal shirt was a 1-0 win over Wales during the September window. The Portuguese Football Federation has announced plans to host a special farewell tribute during Portugal's upcoming home fixture against Denmark on November 14 to honor his two decades of service to the nation.
While his international days have concluded, Ronaldo will continue his professional club career with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he remains under contract and actively pursuing his goal of reaching 1,000 career professional goals. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
Ronaldo's international career summary is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He made his debut on August 20, 2003, and went on to earn a record 234 caps, scoring 146 goals in the process. His major trophies include Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in Portuguese football history.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo ends his 23-year international career with Portugal, retiring as the all-time leading scorer and most-capped player in men's international football history.
- Ronaldo captained Portugal to their first major title at Euro 2016 and lifted two UEFA Nations League trophies in 2019 and 2025.
- A special farewell tribute will be held during Portugal's upcoming home fixture against Denmark on November 14 to honor Ronaldo's two decades of service to the nation.
