Portugal captain 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 forward confirmed his decision on Thursday through an emotional farewell message shared on his social media accounts, accompanied by a five-minute video addressed to Portuguese fans.
Ronaldo made his international debut in August 2003 and leaves the national team as its all-time leading appearance maker and goalscorer, with 234 appearances and 146 goals. During his career, he won three major international titles with Portugal, including the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League trophies.
In his farewell message, Ronaldo expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, family and supporters for their contributions throughout his international journey. He described representing Portugal as one of the greatest honours of his career and said he was proud of everything he achieved with the national team.
He also reflected on the challenges, victories and defeats experienced over the years, stressing that his commitment to Portugal had never wavered. He said he would continue to support and celebrate the national team even after ending his playing career at international level.
Ronaldo urged younger generations of Portuguese footballers to keep dreaming, work hard and believe in their ability to achieve greater things, while describing the opportunity to represent his country as his greatest victory.
His retirement brings to a close one of the most remarkable international careers in football history, having helped Portugal establish itself among Europe’s leading football nations.
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