Ronaldo has announced that he will retire from international football after Portugal’s November fixtures, bringing an end to a record-breaking 23-year career with the national team.
Cristiano Ronaldo said the decision was emotional and difficult, adding that he was ready to “hand back the number 7 shirt” after more than two decades representing his country.
Also Read
Ronaldo to bow out after November break
The 41-year-old is expected to make his final appearances for Portugal during the November international window.
Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark on November 14 before travelling to play Wales on November 17 in the UEFA Nations League.
Ronaldo’s retirement will end one of the longest and most successful international careers in football history.
Record 234 appearances for Portugal
Ronaldo is the most-capped player in men’s international football, having made 234 appearances for Portugal.
He also holds the men’s world record for international goals, with 146 strikes since making his senior debut in 2003.
His consistency across more than two decades also saw him score for Portugal in 23 consecutive calendar years.
Portugal trophies define international career
Ronaldo captained Portugal to their first major international trophy at Euro 2016.
Three years later, he helped the national team win the inaugural UEFA Nations League, before lifting the competition again in 2025.
He also represented Portugal at multiple World Cups and European Championships, becoming one of the most recognizable figures in the country’s football history.
At the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo captained Portugal as they reached the round of 16 before being eliminated by Spain.
Ronaldo thanks Portugal supporters
In announcing his decision, Ronaldo thanked his family, teammates, coaches, staff and Portuguese supporters for backing him throughout his international career.
He said representing Portugal had brought him pride and that the country would remain an important part of his life even after he stops playing for the national team.
Club career continues
The announcement applies only to international football, meaning Ronaldo will continue playing at club level.
His retirement from Portugal marks the end of an era for the national side, which has relied on him as captain, goalscorer and leading figure for more than two decades.
Portugal will now begin planning for life without their long-time number seven as a new generation takes greater responsibility in the national team.
