Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from Portugal national team after 23 years

Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Thursday his retirement from the Portuguese national team, ending one of the most striking trajectories in the history of world football. At the age of 41, the attacker communicated the decision through social networks, in an exciting message addressed to fans, teammates and professionals who participated in his career for the national team.

After 23 years defending Portugal, the shirt 7 leaves the national team with impressive numbers: 234 games played, 146 goals scored and three titles won. The player has also established himself as the world record player for matches and goals for men's national teams.

Cristiano Ronaldo Says Goodbye With Exciting Message

In the publication, the player highlighted the pride of representing his country and recalled the moments of overcoming, the achievements and the difficulties faced since its debut in August 2003.

In announcing the decision, Cristiano acknowledged that leaving the Portuguese team was not a simple choice. The attacker especially thanked the teammates, family and the millions of fans who accompanied his walk.

In his farewell, the Brazilian said that he will continue to follow and cheer for the selection, even away from the lawns. The message ended with a statement of affection for the country: "Portugal will always be in me".

Farewell after wear and tear with coach

Cristiano Ronaldo's announcement also comes after a period of tension with coach Jorge Jesus.

At the end of September, the striker showed dissatisfaction by remaining on the reserve bench during a match against Norway. Subsequently, he left the Portuguese concentration and criticized decisions of the technical commission.

The incident caused repercussions in Portuguese football and resulted in a suspension of 30 days, in addition to a fine applied by the Portuguese Football Federation.

Despite apologizing and expressing a willingness to continue defending Portugal, the striker decided to end his career in the national team.

A career marked by records and titles

Cristiano Ronaldo made his debut for the Portuguese national team in 2003 and quickly became one of the main references in Portuguese football.

His biggest achievement came in 2016, when Portugal defeated France and won the first Eurocup title in its history. The attacker also participated in the victorious League of Nations campaigns in 2019 and 2025.

In addition to collective achievements, Cristiano has built a trajectory marked by individual records, leadership and prominence in international competitions.

With his departure, Portugal begins a new chapter and faces the challenge of replacing one of the greatest players in its history. The Portuguese Football Federation also announced its intention to pay a special tribute to the former captain.

For fans, it is the legacy of a player who turned the Portuguese 7 shirt into one of the most recognized symbols of world football.