CRISTIANO Ronaldo will bring the curtain down on his record-breaking 23-year international career after Portugal’s November fixtures, ending an extraordinary era that saw him become the most capped player and highest scorer in men’s international football.
The 41-year-old football superstar announced Thursday that he would retire from international duty after this month’s Nations League matches, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of 146 goals in 234 appearances and three major international titles.
“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” Ronaldo said.
“If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it.”
Ronaldo’s international career was highlighted by Portugal’s historic Euro 2016 championship, its first major international title, followed by Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.
His final World Cup appearance came in 2026, when Portugal bowed out in the round of 16 following a 1-0 defeat to eventual champion Spain.
The tournament also saw Ronaldo join Argentine rival Lionel Messi as the only players to compete in six World Cups.
Currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, Ronaldo thanked his family, teammates, coaches, staff and Portuguese supporters for their unwavering support throughout his international career.
“Portugal will always be a part of me,” he wrote.
His retirement announcement followed a turbulent September episode when he left Portugal’s training camp without authorization ahead of a Nations League match against Denmark.
Ronaldo reportedly cited unfulfilled commitments from coach Jorge Jesus, who denied any such agreement.
The veteran forward subsequently apologized and declared himself available for selection, but the Portuguese Football Federation imposed a 30-day suspension and a 255-euro fine.
Ronaldo is expected to make his final international appearances when Portugal hosts Denmark in Braga on November 14 before facing Wales.
The Portuguese Football Federation paid tribute to its departing captain, acknowledging his immense contribution to the country’s football success.
“More than an exceptional athlete, our captain was an inspiring leader, an example of dedication and the ultimate symbol of the soul of our National Team,” the federation said.
As he prepares to wear Portugal’s iconic No. 7 jersey for the final time, Ronaldo reflected on a career defined by extraordinary achievements and national pride.
“I spent my life working to become the best player in the world. Today I realise that my greatest victory was having deserved the honour of representing the best country in the world,” he said./PN
