Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the national team. The 41-year-old made the announcement in an emotional farewell statement on Thursday, November 5, reflecting on his journey with Portugal since making his international debut in August 2003. Ronaldo, who wore Portugal’s […]
Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the national team.
The 41-year-old made the announcement in an emotional farewell statement on Thursday, November 5, reflecting on his journey with Portugal since making his international debut in August 2003.
Ronaldo, who wore Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt throughout his career, said the time had come to hand it over to the next generation.
He described the decision as difficult, acknowledging the emotional significance of ending a journey that had shaped his life and career.
In his farewell message, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said his memories went beyond goals, records and trophies, highlighting the supporters who stood behind him over the years.
He also acknowledged the difficult moments, including defeats and occasions when he could not deliver the results Portuguese supporters expected. However, he maintained that he never stopped feeling proud of representing his country.
Ronaldo thanked his teammates, coaches, medical personnel, technical staff and family for their contributions to his international career. He also described captaining Portugal as a privilege.
Reflecting on the unity surrounding the national team, he said that whenever Portugal’s national anthem played, differences in social class, profession, opinion and club allegiance disappeared, leaving only one shared passion: Portugal.
Although he is stepping away from international football, Ronaldo assured supporters that he would continue to follow and celebrate the national team’s achievements.
He concluded by thanking the Portuguese people for believing in him and giving him the opportunity to fulfil a childhood dream that began in Madeira.
Ronaldo retires as Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, with 146 goals in 234 appearances.
He also captained the country to its first European Championship title in 2016 and UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025.
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