Ronaldo to hang up Portugal boots after 23 years
The 41-year-old forward ends his national career following a 1-0 win against Wales in September.
By James Mitchell ·
Cristiano Ronaldo will not play for Portugal again. The 41-year-old forward announced his international retirement on Thursday. He ended a career that included six World Cups and the men's all-time record for international goals.
The news follows a 1-0 victory against Wales in the Nations League on Sept. 24. That match was his final appearance for the national team. Manager Jorge Jesus benched Ronaldo for the next game. Jesus said he did not plan to start him in the upcoming fixture. Ronaldo left the team camp. Jesus later said the player would be welcome back if he chose to return.
Ronaldo spoke in a video posted to social media. He said he is returning the No. 7 jersey to the Portuguese people. He noted that the jersey did not belong to him alone. He held the privilege and responsibility of wearing it for 23 years. His journey began in August 2003. He described the decision as difficult because it was made with the heart, not just the mind.
Portugal has never been without Ronaldo at major tournaments since his arrival. Before he debuted, the national team had qualified for only three World Cups and three European Championships. Under his leadership, Portugal made every World Cup and European Championship. The team won the European Championship in 2016 and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Ronaldo holds the record for most international goals with 146 in 234 matches. He was the first man to score in six World Cups. He reached 11 goals in the World Cup this year. He surpassed the previous national record of nine set by Eusébio. He scored in 23 consecutive calendar years from 2004 to 2026.
The Portuguese Football Federation released a statement expressing deep gratitude. It called Ronaldo the best player of all time. The federation plans to organize a tribute for fans to celebrate him. Ronaldo will continue playing for club football. He is expected to finish this season with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. He has scored 985 career goals and is seeking his 1,000th.
