Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to an end one of the greatest careers in the history of the game after 23 years of representing Portugal.
The 41-year-old Al Nassr forward leaves the national team as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer with 146 goals in 234 appearances, records that underline his lasting impact on world football.
Ronaldo announced his decision in a message shared on social media on Thursday, saying, “Portugal will always be in me.”
The Portuguese captain made his senior debut in 2003 and went on to feature in six FIFA World Cups and six UEFA European Championships, becoming one of the country’s most celebrated footballers.
During his international career, he led Portugal to victory at UEFA Euro 2016 and helped the team win the UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
Describing his national team career as the greatest honour of his life, Ronaldo said he was leaving the pitch with pride after giving everything for his country.
“Today I finish my journey on the pitch with the national team. I leave with my head held high, proud of the path I have taken, and knowing that I gave everything I had for Portugal,” he said.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner added that while goals, trophies and records may fade with time, the love of the Portuguese people would remain with him forever.
He also thanked his teammates, coaches, football officials, family and supporters for standing by him throughout a remarkable international journey that began when he was a young boy in Madeira.
Ronaldo’s retirement comes weeks after reports of disagreements with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over his playing time during the last international break.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star claimed he was promised 30 minutes against Norway but remained on the bench despite warming up throughout the second half.
The disagreement later saw Ronaldo leave the national team’s training camp before Portugal’s match against Denmark, although he later apologised to his teammates and the Portuguese people.
The Portuguese Football Federation praised Ronaldo’s extraordinary contribution to the national team, describing him as an inspiring leader who carried the country’s hopes for more than two decades.
The federation also announced that a fitting tribute would be organised to celebrate the achievements of the iconic captain whose leadership helped shape a golden era for Portuguese football.
Ronaldo’s retirement marks the end of an unforgettable chapter for Portugal, leaving behind a legacy built on record-breaking achievements, major trophies, inspirational leadership and a place among the greatest footballers in history.