Cristiano Ronaldo has shared the news of his retirement from international soccer following a record-setting career with Portugal.
The 41-year-old revealed this development on Thursday via an extended video in which he addressed his supporters through a heartfelt letter.
“The time has come for me to return the iconic number 7 shirt of our national team,” he mentioned, speaking about the shirt number that has become synonymous with him.
“I never believed that it was mine to possess alone. Yet, for 23 years, I have had the honor and responsibility of donning it.”
Ronaldo has made a remarkable 234 appearances for his country, netting a record 146 international goals. No player has surpassed his goal tally or match appearances.
The pinnacle of his international journey occurred in 2016 when he lifted the European Championship trophy for his nation. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in securing victories for Portugal in the UEFA Nations League in both 2019 and 2025.
Public fallout
However, despite his many achievements, his rapport with the national team has gradually deteriorated in recent years, largely due to his diminishing performances on the pitch.
Although time has obviously taken its toll, Ronaldo continued to start matches despite his influence fading, which led to increasing frustration among fans.
Following this summer’s World Cup in North America, the striker had a confrontation with new head coach Jorge Jesus and left a national team training camp in frustration last month.
Ronaldo later issued an apology and it seemed as if he would keep playing for the national team.
His retirement announcement comes just after rival Lionel Messi also stepped away from international play with Argentina.
Regardless of the unfestive conclusion, there is no denying the significant influence Ronaldo has had on Portuguese soccer.
For countless fans, he stands as the greatest player ever produced by the country, having led the team to its initial major silverware.
“It was a challenging decision, as some choices are made not solely with the intellect but also with the heart,” Ronaldo expressed in his video, titled “Portugal will always be a part of me.”
“If I ever brought you joy, if one of my goals ever prompted you to embrace someone, forget a concern, or feel proud of our country, then it was all worthwhile.”
What next?
Ronaldo’s announcement arrives just before the international break later this month when the Seleção will compete against Denmark and Wales in the UEFA Nations League.
The Portuguese Football Federation released a statement on Thursday, indicating that it “refuses to permit this farewell to proceed without proper tribute,” as it prepares to reveal its squad for the upcoming matches.
“It is our strong and immense desire to organize, plan, participate in, and actively collaborate in what will always be a deserving tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo’s outstanding career, where fans and the nation can celebrate once more the player who has contributed so much,” it stated.
The superstar is not retiring entirely, however. He continues to play for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr FC, where he is approaching the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals, currently standing at 985.
This story has been updated with additional information.
For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
