Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 41, bringing an end to one of the most remarkable careers in the history of the sport.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner leaves the international stage as the all-time leader in both appearances and goals in men’s international football, having scored 146 goals in 234 matches for Portugal across an extraordinary 23-year career.
Ronaldo confirmed his decision through a video message shared on Instagram, reflecting on a journey that began with his senior international debut in August 2003 and evolved into one of the most decorated careers ever seen in world football.
“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo said.
“I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it, and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world.”
The announcement follows a turbulent period with the Portuguese national team. Reports indicate Ronaldo recently experienced tensions with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus after being left out of a UEFA Nations League fixture.
The disagreement reportedly led to Ronaldo leaving the national team training camp, resulting in a 30-day suspension and sparking widespread speculation about his international future.
Despite ongoing discussions about a possible return to the squad, the veteran forward has now officially decided to close the chapter on his international career.
Over more than two decades, Ronaldo became the face of Portuguese football, leading his country through multiple European Championships and World Cups while setting numerous records along the way. His achievements transformed Portugal into a global football powerhouse and inspired a generation of players and fans.
Ronaldo’s retirement marks the end of an era for international football, with the iconic number seven leaving behind a legacy defined by extraordinary longevity, record-breaking performances, and countless unforgettable moments on the world stage.
FB Note: This report covers Cristiano Ronaldo’s official retirement from international football and is shared for sports news and public interest purposes.
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