Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a 23-year career with the national team that saw him become one of the most prolific goalscorers in the sport’s history.
The 41-year-old confirmed his decision in an emotional video shared on social media on Thursday, accompanied by the message: “Portugal will always be in me.”
Ronaldo concludes his international career with 146 goals in 234 appearances, having helped Portugal secure the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
“Today I finish my walk on the pitch with the national team,” Ronaldo said in his farewell message.
“I leave with my head held high, with pride in the path I took, and with the awareness that I gave everything I had for Portugal.”
Reflecting on his achievements, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner emphasised that representing his country had meant more to him than individual honours or records.
“The goals pass, the cups are in museums, the records end up being beaten. But there is something that time can never erase, the place we occupy in people’s hearts,” he said.
Ronaldo added that although he had spent much of his career striving to become the world’s best footballer, his greatest achievement was earning the opportunity to wear Portugal’s national shirt.
“Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for having believed in me. Portugal will always be in me. Forever.”
The announcement follows reports of tensions between Ronaldo and Portugal manager Jorge Jesus during the most recent international break.
According to The Sporting News, the disagreement emerged after Ronaldo was left on the bench during Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway.
Ronaldo reportedly left the training camp following the match and headed directly to the dressing room without acknowledging travelling supporters.
The incident subsequently resulted in a suspension from international duty and a fine.
Ronaldo also accused Jesus of failing to honour an assurance that he would be introduced as a substitute, claiming he had begun warming up before the manager changed his decision.
Despite the controversy surrounding his final appearances, Ronaldo leaves international football with a record of sustained success, having represented Portugal across more than two decades and played a central role in some of the country’s greatest footballing achievements.