Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from Portuguese national team

Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team in an emotional social media post on Thursday. The 41-year-old forward confirmed that he would step away from international football after the November international break, bringing an end to an extraordinary 23-year journey representing his country.

Ronaldo, who has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 international goals, said it was time to pass on the iconic number 7 shirt to the next generation of players.

Ronaldo Bids Emotional Farewell to Portugal

In an emotional video shared on social media, Ronaldo reflected on his long career with Portugal and the responsibility of wearing the national team's number 7 shirt.

He said that although the shirt never belonged to him alone, he had the privilege of wearing and defending it for 23 years.

Ronaldo described the retirement decision as difficult, explaining that it was guided not only by his mind but also by his heart.

The video featured memorable moments from his international career, including goals, celebrations, interactions with supporters and family moments with his children.

He also thanked fans for supporting him throughout his journey, saying that if his goals had ever made people happy, proud or helped them forget their worries, his efforts had been worthwhile.

Ronaldo's Historic Achievements with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo leaves behind an impressive international record, establishing himself as one of the greatest footballers in the history of the game.

Some of his major achievements with Portugal include:

234 international appearances: He holds the record for the most appearances in men's international football.

146 international goals: He is the all-time leading men's international goalscorer.

Euro 2016 champion: Ronaldo captained Portugal to their first major international trophy.

2019 Nations League winner: He helped Portugal secure another major international title.

2025 Nations League winner: He was part of Portugal's successful campaign to claim the Nations League trophy again.

His contribution to Portuguese football has made him one of the most influential figures in the country's sporting history.

Rift with Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus

Ronaldo's announcement comes after reports of tensions with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus in October.

The disagreement reportedly followed a Nations League match in which the coach decided not to use Ronaldo. The forward subsequently left the national team camp.

Following the incident, the Portuguese Football Federation handed Ronaldo a 30-day suspension.

Despite the reported disagreement, Ronaldo's retirement announcement focused on his gratitude towards Portugal and the supporters who stood by him throughout his international career.

Alongside his farewell video, Ronaldo shared an emotional caption: "Portugal will always be a part of me."

His announcement marks the end of an important chapter in international football. After more than two decades of representing Portugal, scoring historic goals and leading the national team to major trophies, Ronaldo is preparing to pass the responsibility to a new generation.

His legacy will remain closely connected to Portugal's greatest football achievements, while his influence on the international game is expected to continue long after his final appearance for the national team.