Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a historic 23-year career with Portugal that saw him become the most prolific goalscorer in men's international football.
The 41-year-old confirmed his decision on Thursday, November 5, through an emotional video shared on social media, revealing that he would hand back Portugal's famous No. 7 shirt after the November international break.
Ronaldo described the decision as difficult, reflecting on the responsibility and privilege of representing his country since making his senior international debut in 2003.
"To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the No. 7 shirt of our national team," Ronaldo said.
"I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world."
The Al-Nassr forward leaves the national team as the record holder for both appearances and goals in men's international football, having featured in 234 matches and scored 146 times for Portugal.
His departure closes a remarkable chapter that included six FIFA World Cup appearances and six European Championship tournaments, making him one of the most decorated players in international football history.
His greatest achievement with Portugal came at the 2016 European Championship, where he captained the team to their first major international trophy. Although an injury forced him off during the final against France, Portugal went on to secure a 1-0 victory after extra time.
Ronaldo also played a crucial role in Portugal's UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025, adding to his international honours and cementing his legacy as one of the country's greatest sporting figures.
His international journey began in August 2003 against Kazakhstan, before he established himself as Portugal's most influential player across successive generations.
He became the first player to score at six different World Cups, further extending his records on football's biggest international stage.
The retirement announcement comes weeks after Ronaldo's disagreement with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, which saw him leave the national team camp following a dispute over his involvement in the squad.
The forward had previously dismissed suggestions that he was ready to retire from international football, insisting in September that he still had something to contribute to the national team.
However, his latest announcement brings that chapter to a close, with Portugal now facing the task of moving forward without their long-serving captain and record goalscorer.
Despite his international retirement, Ronaldo is expected to continue his professional career with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, where he remains focused on club football.
His departure leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, having spent more than two decades representing Portugal, winning major honours and setting records that will be difficult for future generations to surpass.
