Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement from Portugal National Team

Cristiano Ronaldo announced on November 5 that he is retiring from the Portugal national team. In a video posted on social media, the 41-year-old said the day had come to hand back the number 7 shirt after 23 years. He has made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals, both men's international records.

Ronaldo captained Portugal to its first major trophy at Euro 2016 and contributed to Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. His final appearance came on September 24 in a 1-0 win over Wales. The announcement followed a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus during the previous international window, when Ronaldo left the camp after not starting and received a 30-day suspension from the federation.

In the video, Ronaldo stated that the decision was not easy because it involved both head and heart. He thanked his family, the Portuguese people, teammates, coaches and staff. The Portuguese Football Federation issued a statement expressing gratitude and said it intends to organize a tribute. Ronaldo is expected to continue at club level with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia through the current season.

The retirement closes a career that began with a debut in August 2003. Ronaldo became the first player to score in six different World Cup editions. Portugal's federation noted that he raised the country's profile and inspired generations of players. The timing places the end of his international career one month after Lionel Messi's final match for Argentina.

No further international appearances are planned. The November break will proceed without him as Jesus names the squad for upcoming Nations League fixtures. Ronaldo's club pursuit of 1,000 career goals continues, with his total near 985 at the time of the announcement.