BREAKING: After 23 Years Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement From International Football—-The Portugal captain brings an extraordinary international career to an end after announcing he will hand over the iconic No. 7 shirt following the November international break, leaving behind 234 appearances and a record 146 goals.

Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious 23-year career with the Portugal national team.

The 41-year-old forward confirmed his decision on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through an emotional video message shared on his social media platforms, revealing that he will hand over Portugal’s iconic No. 7 shirt after the November international break.

Ronaldo’s announcement marks the end of one of the most remarkable international careers in football history, having represented his country since making his senior debut in August 2003.

In his farewell message, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner reflected on the privilege of representing Portugal for more than two decades.

“The day has come to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo said, acknowledging the responsibility and pride that came with wearing the famous jersey for 23 years.

Ronaldo Retires as International Football’s Greatest Goalscorer

Ronaldo leaves international football holding the records for the most appearances and goals in men’s international history.

The Al-Nassr forward made 234 appearances for Portugal, scoring an extraordinary 146 goals during his 23-year international journey.

His remarkable numbers place him at the summit of international football, having consistently delivered goals and memorable performances across multiple generations of the Portuguese national team.

He also represented Portugal at six FIFA World Cups and became the first player to score at five different editions of the competition.

Euro 2016 Triumph Remains His Greatest International Achievement

One of the defining moments of Ronaldo’s international career came in 2016 when he captained Portugal to their first-ever European Championship title.

Despite being forced off through injury during the final against France, Ronaldo remained involved from the sidelines as Portugal secured a historic 1–0 victory after extra time through Éder’s memorable goal.

He subsequently guided Portugal to UEFA Nations League glory in 2019 and again in 2025, adding two more major international honours to his collection.

Those achievements cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in Portuguese football history.

A Difficult Final Chapter for the Portugal Captain

Ronaldo’s announcement comes after a turbulent period surrounding his relationship with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus.

The forward’s final chapter with the national team had attracted considerable attention following reports of disagreements during the previous international window.

However, his decision to retire brings an end to a career that has been defined by extraordinary achievements, individual records and an enduring commitment to representing his country.

Ronaldo’s Club Career Continues at Al-Nassr

Although his international journey is coming to an end, Ronaldo has not announced his retirement from professional football.

The Portuguese superstar remains contracted to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where he continues to pursue further goals and trophies at club level.

His international retirement will allow Portugal to begin preparing for life without their long-serving captain, while the responsibility of wearing the iconic No. 7 shirt will eventually pass to another generation.

End of an Extraordinary Era

For more than two decades, Ronaldo carried the hopes of an entire nation, delivering unforgettable goals, historic victories and moments that helped transform Portugal into a major force in international football.

From his emotional debut in 2003 to lifting the European Championship trophy in 2016, his journey with the national team has been filled with remarkable milestones.

Now, at 41, one of football’s greatest careers at international level is reaching its conclusion.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal legacy:

• International appearances: 234
• International goals: 146
• Major trophies: Euro 2016, UEFA Nations League 2019 and 2025
• International career: 2003–2026
• World Cups: Six appearances

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