Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious 23-year career with Portugal’s national team.
The 41-year-old superstar made the announcement on Thursday through an emotional video shared on his Instagram page, where he read a farewell message to millions of supporters worldwide.
“The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo declared, referring to the iconic jersey he made famous throughout his career.
“I never thought it belonged to me alone. But for 23 years, I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it,” he added.
Ronaldo bows out as Portugal’s most-capped player and all-time leading international goalscorer, having made a staggering 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for his country.
His international career was decorated with historic achievements, most notably leading Portugal to its first-ever UEFA European Championship title in 2016.
He also played a pivotal role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players in the history of international football.
Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest-ever players, Ronaldo leaves behind an extraordinary international legacy defined by goals, records, trophies and an unmatched commitment to his country.
