One of football’s greatest icons, Cristiano Ronaldo, has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 23-year journey with the Portugal national team to an end.
The 41-year-old superstar made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through an emotional video message shared on social media, confirming that the time had come to hand back Portugal’s famous number seven shirt.
Ronaldo’s decision closes a remarkable chapter that began in August 2003, when he made his senior international debut as a promising young footballer. More than two decades later, he leaves the national team as its greatest goalscorer and most-capped male player.
His final international record stands at an incredible 234 appearances and 146 goals, making him the all-time record holder in men’s international football for both appearances and goals. He also made history as the first player to score at six different FIFA World Cup tournaments.
A LEGACY THAT CHANGED PORTUGUESE FOOTBALL
Ronaldo’s international career was defined by extraordinary performances, historic goals, unforgettable celebrations and a determination that inspired millions of football fans around the world.
One of his greatest achievements came in 2016, when he captained Portugal to its first-ever European Championship title. Despite being forced off through injury during the final against France, he remained involved from the sidelines as his teammates secured a historic victory.
He later helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025, further strengthening his legacy as one of the most successful captains in the country’s football history.
Beyond the trophies, Ronaldo became a symbol of Portuguese football, carrying the hopes of an entire nation through six World Cup appearances and numerous European Championship campaigns.
His individual achievements also include five Ballon d’Or awards, reflecting his extraordinary influence on world football throughout his career.
“THE TIME HAS COME TO HAND BACK THE NUMBER SEVEN SHIRT”
In his farewell message, Ronaldo reflected on the responsibility and privilege of representing his country for 23 years.
He explained that the number seven shirt never belonged to him alone, describing it as a responsibility he had the honour of wearing and defending around the world.
He also acknowledged that the decision was not easy, saying his journey with Portugal had changed his life forever.
Ronaldo thanked the Portuguese people, his teammates, coaches, staff and everyone who supported him throughout his international career.
His message was emotional, reflecting not only on goals and trophies but also on the connection he developed with millions of supporters who followed his journey.
WHAT NEXT FOR CRISTIANO RONALDO?
Although his international career has ended, Ronaldo is not retiring from professional football altogether.
The forward is expected to continue his club career with Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, where he remains focused on competing and adding to his remarkable collection of achievements.
His departure from the Portugal national team also creates an opportunity for a new generation of players to take responsibility and carry the country’s football ambitions forward.
For Portugal, replacing Ronaldo’s influence will be an enormous challenge. His goalscoring records, leadership, experience and ability to deliver on the biggest stages have made him a unique figure in the country’s sporting history.
After 23 years, 234 appearances, 146 goals and several historic trophies, the curtain has finally fallen on Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career.
The number seven shirt will belong to another player, but the memories, records and legacy created by Cristiano Ronaldo will remain part of Portuguese football history forever.
Thank you, Cristiano Ronaldo, for the memories!
