Officially.. Cristiano Ronaldo announces his retirement from international play and ends a historic career with Portugal
Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international play, thus bringing an end to an exceptional career in the Portuguese national team's jersey that spanned over 23 years, after confirming his decision in a statement he published on his official social media accounts on Thursday.
Ronaldo said in his message that the time has come to hand over the number 7 jersey to the next generation, indicating that he never felt the number belonged to him alone, but he had the honor and responsibility of wearing it and defending the colors of his national team for over two decades.
His message stated that his journey with the national team, which began in August 2003, changed his life forever, emphasizing that his memories are not limited to matches, goals, numbers, and championships, but extend to the Portuguese fans who supported him throughout his career, before concluding his message by affirming that Portugal will always remain in his heart.
The former Portugal captain leaves the national team after creating a history that is difficult to repeat, having played 234 international matches, scoring 146 goals, becoming the record holder for the number of appearances and goals at the men's international level.
Ronaldo also led his country to win the European Championship in 2016, in addition to winning the UEFA Nations League twice in 2019 and 2025, leaving a prominent mark on the history of Portuguese football.
With this decision, one of the greatest international careers in football history comes to an end, as Ronaldo wore the Portugal jersey for over two decades, leaving a goal-scoring and heroic legacy that will remain in the memory of fans for many years to come.