Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement From International Football After 23-Year Portugal Career

Lisbon, Nov 5: Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious 23-year career with the national team.

The 38-year-old Al-Nassr striker announced his decision through an emotional video message on Instagram on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent Portugal and describing the journey as a life-changing experience.

Ronaldo made his international debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003. During his remarkable career, he scored a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, establishing himself as one of the greatest players in international football.

Reflecting on his journey, Ronaldo said wearing Portugal’s iconic No. 7 jersey had been both a privilege and a responsibility. He added that the time had come to pass the jersey on to the next generation.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said his international career was about much more than goals and records, highlighting the emotional bond he shared with supporters across the world. He also recalled the triumphs and setbacks he experienced while representing his country, maintaining that the pride of playing for Portugal never faded.

In his farewell message, Ronaldo thanked his teammates, coaches, support staff and family for their contribution and sacrifices throughout his career. He also urged young Portuguese footballers to dream big and continue creating history for the country.

Concluding his message, Ronaldo described representing Portugal as his greatest victory, adding that the pride of wearing the No. 7 jersey would remain with him forever.

Note: The supplied copy contains factual inconsistencies. Ronaldo was born in 1985 and is 41 in November 2026, not 38. Also, the retirement announcement should be independently verified before publication.