Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 23-year career with the national team.
The 41-year-old announced his decision in an emotional video shared on social media on Thursday, telling the Portuguese people that the time had come to hand over the national team shirt and captain’s armband.
“The day has come to hand back the shirt and the captain’s armband of the national team that belongs to all of us,” Ronaldo wrote.
“I am bringing to an end a journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner described the decision as difficult, saying it was one he made with both his head and heart.
“Throughout my entire career with the national team, I always tried to push beyond my limits. I wanted to win, I wanted to be the best, I wanted to make history,” he said.
Ronaldo made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003 and retires as the country’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer, with 234 caps and 146 goals. He also holds the world record for the most international goals scored by a male player.
During his international career, he captained Portugal to its first major trophy at Euro 2016, despite being forced off with an injury during the final against France. He also led the country to UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
Among his most memorable performances was his hat-trick against Spain at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, when he scored all three goals in Portugal’s 3-3 draw.
He also scored four goals across Portugal’s 2014 World Cup qualifying play-off against Sweden, securing the country’s place at the tournament in Brazil.
Ronaldo further holds the record for the most goals scored at the European Championship, with 14, and the most appearances at the tournament, with 30. He also made history as the first player to feature in six editions of the FIFA World Cup.
Reflecting on his departure, Ronaldo thanked his teammates, coaches, support staff, family and Portuguese supporters for their contributions throughout his career.
Despite retiring from international football, he said he would continue supporting the national team and celebrating its successes.
“I will continue to suffer, to feel the excitement, and to celebrate every Portuguese victory, just as I always have,” he wrote.
He described representing Portugal as the greatest achievement of his career.
“Today, I realise that my greatest victory was earning the honour of representing the best country in the world,” Ronaldo said.
“Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for believing in me.”
