Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, 5 November 2026, ending a 23‑year stint with Portugal that saw him become the highest‑capped male player in history and the leading goalscorer in men’s international football.
The 41‑year‑old forward posted a video message on his social media accounts, stating that he had made the decision after careful consideration of both his head and his heart. In the clip he said, “To the Portuguese people, the day has come to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team … Today the time has come to pass it on to the future.”
Ronaldo’s international career began in August 2003, when he made his debut for Portugal as a teenager. He captained the side to its first European Championship title in 2016 and helped the country win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. He leaves the national team with 234 appearances and 146 goals.
In his farewell message the forward reflected on the highs and lows of his career. “There were perfect afternoons and nights, victories I will never forget, and defeats that still hurt to remember. I also failed, I also suffered, and there were moments when I was not able to give the Portuguese people what they so wanted. But I never gave up,” he said.
Ronaldo thanked teammates, coaches, medical staff, support personnel and family for their support. He added a special note to Portuguese supporters worldwide, recalling the emotion of standing together as the national anthem played before matches. “I will carry that feeling with me for the rest of my life,” he said.
Although he is ending his playing career with the national team, Ronaldo said he would continue to support Portugal and celebrate its victories. “I leave with my head held high, proud of the path I took and with the clear conscience that I gave everything I had for Portugal. But I will never stop being one of you,” he added.
The announcement follows a period of tension with coach Jorge Jesus and a reported departure from a national‑team camp in late September or early October. Ronaldo had previously dismissed retirement rumours, insisting he remained available for selection after serving any suspension. His decision leaves Portugal preparing for a future without its most prolific goalscorer and record appearance holder.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>