Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football after 23 years with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially retired from international duty at age 41, ending a record-breaking 23-year career with the Portuguese national team.

The veteran forward announced his departure through an emotional five-minute social media video titled "OBRIGADO, PORTUGAL." In the footage, Ronaldo reflected on his time wearing the number seven shirt, stating he felt it was a privilege and a responsibility to defend it since his senior debut in 2003. World Soccer Talk noted that his exit comes alongside the international retirement of Lionel Messi, marking the end of an era for global football.

Ronaldo leaves the international stage as the all-time leader in men’s international football for both appearances and goals. While World Soccer Talk and OnlineKhabar English News report slightly different appearance totals—234 and 232 respectively—both outlets agree he finished his career with 146 international goals. BBC Sport reported that Ronaldo will continue playing for Al-Nassr as he pursues a career goal of 1,000 total goals, currently sitting at 985.

The retirement follows recent tension within the national team camp. According to ESPN, Ronaldo's decision came after a fallout with Portugal manager Jorge Jesus. OnlineKhabar English News reported that the forward recently left a training camp after missing a Nations League match against Norway. After that game, he reportedly went straight to the dressing room instead of joining teammates on the pitch, leading to a fine and an international match suspension.

Before his exit, the controversy intensified as Ronaldo accused coach Jorge Jesus of failing to keep specific promises made to him. Despite the recent friction, Ronaldo expressed lasting pride in his tenure, stating that the national team would always be a part of him even as he hands back the number seven jersey.

Background

Ronaldo’s international career began in 2003 and included leading Portugal to their first European Championship title in 2016. Over his two decades with the Selecao, he became the country’s all-time leading goalscorer and most recognizable sporting figure.