Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his decision to retire from international football which means the end of an amazing journey with Portugal national team. The 41-year-old football star made the announcement in a video message posted on his social media accounts.
The announcement is an important moment in international football because one of the greatest players in the history of the game prepares to leave the national team he has played for more than two decades.
Ronaldo Confirms His International Retirement
In his farewell message Ronaldo said it was time for him to give Portugal back its number 7 shirt. He recalled the memories he made with the national team and playing for his country.
Ronaldo will end his international career after the November international break, reports say. The news has been received with great interest by football fans around the world.
The forward’s decision comes after years of speculation about how long he would play for Portugal as he entered the latter stages of his professional career.
A Historic Journey With Portugal
Ronaldo made his senior international debut for Portugal in August 2003 and since then he has become the country’s most successful and recognisable footballer.
Reuters state that Ronaldo has played 234 times for Portugal and scored 146 international goals (both records in men’s international football).
His international career has produced several memorable moments (winning the UEFA European Championship in 2016, Portugal's UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025). He was key to Portugal winning the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.
Over the years Ronaldo became the face of Portuguese football and inspired generations of young players through his performances, leadership and dedication.
Portugal estará sempre em mim https://t.co/dnFj51rxmh
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 5, 2026
Records That Define His International Career
Ronaldo’s achievements go beyond goals and trophies. He was the first man to score in five FIFA World Cup tournaments (men’s football) and represented Portugal across generations of players.
His consistency, physical preparation and determination meant he was able to stay an important figure in international football into his forties.
For Portugal fans it will be the end of an extraordinary chapter. His shirt number 7 has become part of him and his contributions to the national team.
What Happens Next?
Ronaldo’s announcement doesn’t mean he is retiring from professional club football. He is still a footballer at club level with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr and international retirement is not the same as retiring from professional football altogether.
His last appearances for Portugal after the announcement will be an opportunity for supporters to remember him as part of the national team.
While the farewell will be painful for Portuguese fans Ronaldo’s legacy is already there. His goals, records, leadership and achievements have made him one of the most influential figures in the history of international football.
As he puts on Portugal’s number 7 shirt for the last time, football fans will think of a career that changed how well the country was regarded in the international game.
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