Cristiano Ronaldo
'Portugal will always be in me': Cristiano Ronaldo calls time on record-breaking international career
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 23-year career with Portugal and one of the game's most prolific runs.
The 41-year-old forward announced it in a social media post on Thursday, confirming he would “hand back the number 7 shirt” after the November international break.
Ronaldo leaves behind an extraordinary record for his country, having captained Portugal to their first major international trophy at Euro 2016.
He also played a key role in the team's Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.
Reflecting on his decision, Ronaldo admitted that ending his international career was not easy.
“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,” he 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,” CR7 added.
Ronaldo thanks Portugal
In his announcement, Ronaldo expressed gratitude to his family, the Portuguese people and everyone who had been part of his journey with the national team.
He acknowledged the contribution of his teammates, coaches and support staff throughout his 23 years representing Portugal.
“Portugal will always be a part of me,” he wrote in the caption accompanying his announcement video.
His departure marks the end of an era for Portuguese football, with the forward having been a central figure in the national side across several generations.
Record-breaking international career
Ronaldo made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, establishing himself as the leading international appearance-maker and top scorer in men's international football.
His international career spanned more than two decades, during which he became the face of Portuguese football and helped the country secure major honours.
The Euro 2016 victory remains one of the defining moments of his career.
Portugal defeated France in the final to claim their first European Championship title, with Ronaldo captaining the side.
He subsequently helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025, adding to his international achievements.
With his decision to retire after the November international break, Ronaldo is set to bring his long association with the Portugal national team to a close.
Support Our Journalism
We cannot do without you.. your contribution supports unbiased journalism
IBNS is not driven by any ism- not wokeism, not racism, not skewed secularism, not hyper right-wing or left liberal ideals, nor by any hardline religious beliefs or hyper nationalism. We want to serve you good old objective news, as they are. We do not judge or preach. We let people decide for themselves. We only try to present factual and well-sourced news.
Support objective journalism for a small contribution.
