Internet, Nov. 5: Portugal football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football. The five time Ballon d’Or winner confirmed his decision through a video shared on social media.
Ronaldo ends his international career as football’s leading international goalscorer and most capped player. He scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal.
The 41 year old represented Portugal for 23 years, making his debut in August 2003. He led the country to Euro 2016 glory and helped secure two UEFA Nations League title.
Ronaldo also represented Portugal in six World Cups. His final campaign ended with a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. He remains the only player to score in six different editions of the tournament.
Ronaldo Reflects on His Portugal Journey
In his farewell message, Ronaldo said it was time to hand the national team’s number 7 shirt to the next generation. He described the decision as difficult but necessary.
He said his international journey involved more than goals, records and trophies. Instead, he highlighted the bond he shared with Portuguese fans across the world.
Ronaldo also recalled victories, painful defeats and moments when he could not meet supporters’ expectations. However, he said he never stopped feeling proud of representing Portugal.
#Portugalfootballicon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football after an extraordinary 23-year journey, releasing an emotional farewell video across his social media channels.
#Ronaldo #CristianoRonaldo #CR7 #FootballNews #IndToday https://t.co/t41ozMrRQ8
— indtoday (@ind2day) November 5, 2026
Meanwhile, the Portuguese Football Federation announced plans to organise a special tribute for the football icon. It said the country deserved an opportunity to celebrate his contribution to Portuguese football.
Ronaldo’s international career brought major trophies and individual records. However, winning the FIFA World Cup remained the one major honour missing from his collection.
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