World Media Feed Editorial Team
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 23-year career with Portugal to a close and ending one of the most significant chapters in modern football.
The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, through a video shared on social media. He said the time had come to hand over Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt after the November international break.
Ronaldo leaves the national team as the men’s all-time leading international goalscorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. Both figures are world records.
In his announcement, he thanked the Portuguese people, his family, teammates, coaches and staff who accompanied him throughout his international journey.
From teenage debut to national icon
Ronaldo made his senior international debut in August 2003, beginning a journey that would span more than two decades and six World Cup tournaments.
His first major international final came at Euro 2004, when Portugal hosted the competition but lost to Greece.
Twelve years later, he finally lifted a major trophy with his country.
At Euro 2016 in France, Portugal defeated the host nation in the final to claim its first European Championship. Ronaldo, who captained the team, was forced off with an injury during the match but celebrated alongside his teammates as Portugal secured the title.
He later helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.
Records that defined an era
Ronaldo’s international achievements extend far beyond his goal total.
He became the first men’s player to score at six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, appearing in every edition from 2006 through 2026.
He also became the first man to reach 10 international hat-tricks and maintained an international scoring record across 23 consecutive calendar years.
His 146 goals and 234 appearances place him at the top of the men’s international records, ahead of other leading figures in the sport.
Although Portugal won major international trophies during his career, the FIFA World Cup remained the major title he never secured.
Portugal’s campaign at the 2026 World Cup ended in the round of 16 with a defeat to eventual champions Spain.
An emotional farewell amid questions about his final chapter
The announcement followed a period of tension surrounding Ronaldo’s position in the national team and his relationship with coach Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo had left Portugal’s training camp in September following disagreements over his role. He subsequently apologized and said he remained available for selection.
Jesus later said he had asked Ronaldo to remain with the national team but would respect the player’s decision.
The Portuguese Football Federation expressed gratitude for Ronaldo’s contribution and said his influence had inspired generations of footballers and supporters.
Club football remains ahead
Ronaldo’s international retirement does not mean the immediate end of his playing career.
He is expected to continue representing Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where he remains active in professional football.
His pursuit of further club achievements, including the ambition to reach 1,000 career goals, gives supporters another reason to follow the next stage of his career.
A legacy beyond the numbers
Ronaldo’s departure closes a remarkable chapter for Portugal. His career brought individual records, major international trophies and worldwide attention to Portuguese football.
For a generation of supporters, the number seven became closely associated with his name, performances and leadership.
The debate over when his international career should have ended may continue, but his statistical achievements and contribution to Portugal’s football history are firmly established.
World Media Feed will continue covering the major developments shaping international football and the future of the Portuguese national team.
Sources
- Reuters – Portugal’s Ronaldo announces international retirement
- Associated Press – Ronaldo ends international career
- Reuters – Portugal prepares to honour Ronaldo
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