DUBAI, UAE- One of football’s greatest chapters is approaching its end. Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing down the curtain on an extraordinary 23-year journey with the Portugal national team.
The 41-year-old forward shared the emotional announcement on Thursday, November 5, saying that the time had come to hand over Portugal’s famous number 7 shirt to the next generation. His decision will take effect after the November international break.
Ronaldo described the decision as difficult, explaining that it was not something he had taken lightly. In his farewell message, he reflected on the journey that began in August 2003 and changed his life forever.
For Ronaldo, representing Portugal was about much more than scoring goals, winning matches and collecting records. He spoke about the millions of supporters who stood behind him, including Portuguese people living far from home who felt connected to their country through the national team’s performances.
He also thanked his family, teammates, coaches, staff and supporters who were part of this remarkable journey. His message carried a strong sense of gratitude, with Ronaldo making it clear that Portugal would always remain a part of him.
The numbers tell the story of an extraordinary international career. Ronaldo has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, making him the most capped player and highest goalscorer in men’s international football history.
His international journey began in 2003 when he made his debut as an 18-year-old. Over the years, he became the face of Portuguese football and one of the most recognised sporting personalities across the world.
One of the defining moments of his career came in 2016, when he captained Portugal to its first European Championship title. Although an injury forced him to leave the final against France early, he continued to encourage his teammates from the sidelines as Portugal went on to lift the trophy.
He was also part of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025, adding further glory to his country’s football history.
Ronaldo represented Portugal in six FIFA World Cups and five European Championships. His commitment, fitness, competitive spirit and hunger for success helped him remain at the highest level of international football for more than two decades.
Beyond the national team, his club career has taken him through some of the biggest football clubs in the world, including Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. He currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
Importantly, his announcement relates to international football and does not mean that he is immediately retiring from club football.
As Portugal prepares for a future without its iconic number 7, the country will be bidding farewell to a player whose achievements have shaped an entire generation of football supporters.
Records may eventually be broken, and new stars will emerge, but Ronaldo’s contribution to Portuguese football will remain a significant part of the country’s sporting history.
For millions of fans around the world, this is not simply the end of an international career. It is the closing of a golden chapter in football history.
