Ronaldo retires from Portugal national team after 23 years

Cristiano Ronaldo ended his international career on Thursday, confirming he will no longer represent Portugal. The announcement closes a 23-year tenure with the national side that included six World Cup appearances and a European championship title.

The 41-year-old shared a video message on social media to inform fans of the decision. He stated that the day had arrived to return the No. 7 shirt to the Portuguese people. Ronaldo described the jersey not as his personal property, but as a privilege and responsibility he carried into stadiums worldwide for two decades.

His final appearance for the national team occurred on Sept. 24 during a 1-0 victory over Wales in the Nations League. The departure followed a recent conflict with head coach Jorge Jesus. Jesus kept Ronaldo on the bench for the match immediately following the win against Wales and indicated he did not plan to start him in the next fixture. In response, Ronaldo left the team's training camp. Jesus later noted that the door remained open for a return, leaving the choice to the player.

The Portuguese soccer federation released a statement expressing deep gratitude for Ronaldo's service. Officials described him as the greatest player of all time, crediting him with raising the country's global profile and inspiring young athletes. The federation plans to organize a tribute event where fans can celebrate his contributions to the sport.

Ronaldo will continue playing at the club level, mirroring the path taken by Lionel Messi, who concluded his international duties after a farewell match last month. The forward is expected to finish his professional career with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia at the end of the current season.

He currently stands 15 goals away from his 1,000th career goal. His international tally includes a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. His career spanned from August 2003, when he began his journey with the national team, through the present day.